Socrates Bomfim-Neto has been a collector since childhood, when he would collect things like records, bottle caps, and bubble gum. “We used to joke that collector’s have a special collector’s gene,” he laughs. While he actually has multiple collections, the one that means the most to him is his collection of sports medals.

The sports medals focus specifically on Socrates’ favorite sport, futbol, also known as soccer. He grew up in Brazil, where the entire country is passionate about soccer. “We start at a young age, and everything revolves around soccer,” he shares. He follows the national team, and all his sports medals are gold medals from the national team. He doesn’t collect silver or bronze medals – only gold!

To find one of these medals is challenging! Only about 23-24 are made of each, because they are made specifically for the winners of the tournaments. Often, these players are unwilling to part with the medals as they hold sentimental value. “It’s a rare feat to find those medals, and that’s part of the fun!” shares Socrates. The very first medal that he ever obtained was a from FIFA’s “youth” tournament, the 1993 Under-20 World Cup.

Socrates has a collection of about 20 medals, and he has medal from about 90% of all the wins from the 1950s and onward. He finds it difficult to name a favorite! “My favorite might be the 1970 World Cup.” This was a big win for Brazil, as they beat the Italian team. The medal in Socrates’ collection came from the popular coach, Mario Zagallo, who is currently 92 years old. “He is a big deal in Brazil. I enjoyed watching his games!”

The medals often sell for between $2,000 and $3,000, but Socrates has paid as much as $60,000 for some of them. “I’ve heard of collectors paying over $100,000 for them. Pele sold some for around $250,000 each!” Collectors are very eager to collect the medals. Among the hardest to find in Socrates’ collection are those from 1958, 1962, 1970, 1994, and 2002.

Socrates’ collection is stored in a safe location outside of his home, and everything is organized by year. Often, he will grab a medal or two to get a closer look at them. “I really love them! I enjoy them very much – that’s the reason for a collector to collect something.”

About Collectibles Insurance Services

Collectibles Insurance Services has been protecting collections since 1966 and all coverage is provided by a carrier with a group rating of “A” (Excellent) by AM Best, the leading rating agency for the insurance industry.

Comprehensive coverage includes, but is not limited to: accidental breakage, burglary, fire, flood, loss in the mail, theft, natural disasters, and other causes of loss unless specifically excluded from the policy. Deductibles start at $0 for collector policies and we provide coverage for the market value of your collection for losses in excess of $50.

Additionally the protection extends At home and away, and we don't require collection itemization and serial number nor extensive paperwork and red tape.