Bernhard Schmid

Lothar Schmid was a prominent German chess grandmaster and arbiter, considered one of Germany's foremost chess figures. He is particularly remembered for his role as the arbiter in the historic 1972 “Match of the Century” between Spassky and Fischer. Schmid's passion for chess extended beyond playing and officiating; he amassed a vast collection of chess memorabilia, considered the largest and most important of its kind in private hands. Schmid is newsworthy because his extensive collection is scheduled to be auctioned at Sotheby's in London next month. The auction highlights the significance of Schmid's contribution to the chess world and provides an opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts to acquire pieces of chess history. The sale underscores Schmid's legacy as a pivotal figure in the sport.