Original iconic Anfield Stadium tunnel piece set to be auctioned after decades in storage

The original “This Is Anfield” sign from Liverpool’s famous stadium tunnel is set to go under the hammer, with its remarkable history dating back more than 50 years.

The iconic piece could now leave its long-time home and fetch a five-figure sum at auction.

This Is Anfield sign could net £15,000 at auction

The famous sign has a guide price of between £10,000 and £15,000 and will be offered during a two-day auction on 8th and 9th of September, as per the BBC.

The words have become synonymous with Liverpool, hanging above the passage to the pitch where Reds players traditionally touch the sign before matches.

Legendary manager Bill Shankly chose the wording in 1972 after rejecting “Welcome To Anfield” as too friendly. The intention was to remind Liverpool players who they represented while intimidating visiting teams as they headed towards the pitch.

The original sign was removed in the 1970s and given to Ronald Wilson, a former member of Liverpool’s boys' team, by then-player and future manager Roy Evans.

“As Arne Slot prepares to walk under the iconic ‘This is Anfield’ sign” said the presenter.

By far the most iconic picture, of an iconic manager, walking under that sign… pic.twitter.com/SUsrLOlEla

— Marc (@BlackScarfMarc) August 25, 2024

Wilson’s family displayed it at the Rutland Hotel in Douglas on the Isle of Man from 1979 until 2000, before it later moved to his son Ian’s office. It has been in storage following his retirement earlier this year.

The sign was also part of Anfield Stadium history during the club’s first two European Cup triumphs in 1977 and 1978, while famous players including Kenny Dalglish, Alan Hansen and Frank McGarvey were pictured with it.

Former stadium announcer George Sephton, who worked at Anfield from 1971 until 2025, said touching the sign was a privilege, while football historian Peter Kenny Jones believes its auction will finally give the piece the appreciation it deserves.

FGG says: Liverpool’s iconic sign deserves a special new home

There is something brilliant about an ordinary-looking piece of stadium furniture carrying so much Liverpool history. It is a relic of the Shankly era and a symbol that generations of players have associated with stepping into Anfield.

£15,000 may sound a lot for a piece of old signage, but given its provenance and connection to one of football’s most famous stadium traditions, it could prove to be a fascinating collector’s item.

Hopefully, whoever buys it understands exactly what they have got and gives this unique piece of Anfield history the home it deserves.