Early Subbuteo figure

This is an early Subbuteo player from 1950-52. The first figures were printed on card and had to be cut out and mounted on the base before play. These figures were known as cardboard flats. Early Subbuteo sets also included instructions on drawing out your own pitch on an old army blanket.

Subbuteo was invented in 1947 by Peter Adolph from his home in Langon Green, near Tunbridge Wells. Inspired by a button from Woolworths, Peter thought he could improve upon the table football games popular at the time. He made a base using the button, weighted down with a washer. The result revolutionised table football as it allowed players to spin and curve - just like a real footballer.

From small beginnings in Langton Green, Subbuteo has become a household name in the UK and across the world. It has been sold in over 50 countries and the rules have been translated into 16 different languages.