Featured here is a majestic 2014 FIFA World Cup gold winner’s medal awarded to a member of the Germany National Team. Hosted by Brazil, the world’s biggest sporting event certainly lived up to its billing. On July 13, 2014, in front of a crowd of 74,738 attendees at Maracanã Stadium in Rio de Janeiro, the Germans faced Argentina in an epic World Cup Final, a record third finals matchup between the two soccer powers (after 1986 and 1990). It was hyped as the world's best player [Lionel Messi] versus the world's #1 ranked football team. Alas, Deutschland proved they were indeed the best as they defeated Argentina in a memorable 1-0 nailbiter for their fourth world title (one behind Brazil). In the second period of extra time (113’) attacking midfielder Mario Götze, who came on as a substitute near the end of regulation, finished a nice cross with a left-footed volley into the back of the net for the eventual game-winner. The host nation finished in a disappointing fourth place after suffering one of their worst ever losses to Germany in the Semifinals, a 7-1 thrashing in which Brazil also lost Neymar to a serious back injury.
FIFA World Cup winner’s medals issued to the world champions are incredibly scarce and few have hit the auction block. No more than 50 official winner’s medals were issued by FIFA to members of the top three finishing teams. The obverse has "2014 FIFA WORLD CUP BRAZIL” above a relief of the classic World Cup trophy stamped with a tiny “TM” trademark. The reverse features “WORLD CHAMPION” in raised lettering at the top with a relief of the 2014 World Cup Brazil logo followed by "FIFA WORLD CUP BRASIL." A registered trademark symbol from the manufacturer ("RC”) is hallmarked on the reverse side as well.
Only winner’s medals were designed with a lovely loop and the elegant blue silk FIFA-logoed ribbon allowing players and coaches to wear them proudly. The other major differences from participation medals were their significantly larger size and the participating team's order of finish – in this case, World Champions – embossed on the reverse. Made of gold-plated gilt silver, this beauty measures 60 mm in diameter, 5 mm thick and weighs 115 grams (including ribbon). The medal presents in outstanding condition with light wear on the bottom edge. The all-original ribbon has just the slightest bit of handling. It comes in its original blue presentation case (approx. 4.75" x 4.75" x 1.5”), which functions as issued. Also includes a COA from AGON SportsWorld.