Sterling Chess 1972 Reykjavik Championship 96mm Chess Pieces
✔ Australian Owned & Operated
✔ FREE Shipping On All Orders
✔ 100 Day FREE Returns
✔ Authorised Australian Dealer
✔ Questions? Call Us: (03) 7037 0931
✔ Australian Owned & Operated
✔ FREE Shipping On All Orders
✔ 100 Day FREE Returns
✔ Authorised Australian Dealer
✔ Questions? Call Us: (03) 7037 0931
Looking for an affordable set from the Match of the Century? These 1972 Reykjavik Championship chess pieces reproduce the Jaques of London set used when Bobby Fischer played Boris Spassky in Iceland.
The officers are compact, with a low rook and a small pawn, so the set sits neatly on a standard board. With a 96mm king, it suits a board with 50mm squares. Each set is handmade in India.
The dark pieces are sheesham and the light pieces are boxwood. Two spare queens are included, but no board or box. See more historical sets in our reproduction chess pieces collection.
The 1972 world championship in Reykjavik, Iceland, was called the Match of the Century. Bobby Fischer beat Boris Spassky to become world champion, and the match was followed far beyond the chess world.
The set used for the match was made by Jaques of London, the firm behind the first Staunton chess set. This reproduction is modelled on that match set.
Compared with our other 1972 sets, this one is more compact through the officers and pawns. It fits nicely on a board with 50mm squares, which suits most home boards.
We carry three 1972 reproductions, and each is a slightly different turning. Compare this set with our 1972 Fischer Spassky ebonised pieces and 1972 Fischer Spassky Low Knight pieces.
Sheesham is a warm, reddish-brown hardwood from India with visible grain. Against boxwood, it gives the set a natural, classic look rather than a stark black and white one.
The pieces are weighted for a solid feel, and the full set comes to about 1,230g. Thick green felt on each base protects your board and keeps moves smooth.
It's one of the most affordable of our 1972 reproductions, which makes it a great choice for a first wooden set with a famous story.
If you'd prefer the black and white look of the match itself, the ebonised version is the one to compare. The compact pieces also make this set a good fit for younger players and smaller hands, and the spare queens are handy for pawn promotion. It's a set that works just as well for casual games at home as it does for practice before a club tournament.
"This is a great-value way to own a set from the Match of the Century. The sheesham gives it a warm, natural look rather than the black and white of the match board, so pick the ebonised set if you want that look. For a first wooden set with a famous story, it's hard to beat."
- Blake Sterling, CEO & Founder, Sterling Chess
A board with 50mm squares is the best match. Our Bud Rosewood & Maple 48cm board and Sheesham & Maple 48cm board both have 50mm squares, or see our full chess boards collection.
They're handmade in India, so each piece can show small natural differences in grain.
No. You get the 34 pieces only. The board and box are sold separately.
Yes, they're weighted with thick green felt bases. The full set weighs about 1,230g.
The set used in Reykjavik was made by Jaques of London.
Sheesham is an Indian hardwood with a warm, reddish-brown colour. It's also called Indian rosewood.
It's a more compact turning in sheesham. Our other 1972 sets are slightly larger through the officers.
Yes, one in each colour, so you get 34 pieces.
Wipe them with a soft, dry cloth. Keep them out of direct sunlight and away from heat and water, as the pieces aren't waterproof.
Spec |
Detail |
King height |
96mm (3.7 inch) |
King base diameter |
42mm (1.6 inch) |
Queen height |
77mm (3.0 inch) |
Queen base diameter |
39mm (1.5 inch) |
Bishop height |
68mm (2.6 inch) |
Knight height |
64mm (2.5 inch) |
Rook height |
52mm (2.0 inch) |
Officer base diameter |
35mm (1.3 inch), bishop, knight and rook |
Pawn height |
46mm (1.8 inch) |
Pawn base diameter |
29mm (1.1 inch) |
Dark pieces |
Sheesham |
Light pieces |
Boxwood |
Weighting |
Weighted, thick green felt bases |
Piece count |
34, including two spare queens |
Total set weight |
1,230g approx. |
Recommended square size |
50mm |
Origin |
Handmade in India |
32 chess pieces in sheesham and boxwood
2 spare queens, one per colour
Chess board not included
Storage box not included
All products sold by Sterling Chess are backed by a 12 month limited manufacturer warranty. This covers manufacturing defects and cracking, and ensures every product is 100% genuine. If you need assistance, our team is only a call or email away.
Is shipping really free?
Yes — we offer free standard shipping on all orders across Australia, with no minimum spend. The price you see at checkout is the price you pay.
Are there any exceptions to free shipping?
No exceptions. Every order ships free, regardless of size, weight, or order value.
How long will my order take to arrive?
Orders are typically dispatched within 1–2 business days, with delivery times depending on your location. You'll receive tracking details by email once your order is on its way.
Do you ship to all areas of Australia?
Yes, we deliver Australia-wide, including regional and remote areas — all at no shipping cost to you.
Can I track my order?
Absolutely. As soon as your order ships, we'll email you a tracking number so you can follow its journey to your door.
What if I need my order quickly?
Get in touch before ordering and we'll do our best to help. Standard shipping is free, and we'll advise on the fastest available option for your area. To contact us, simply email us at support@sterlingchess.com.au, call (03) 7037 0931 or open the live chat.
Changed your mind? You can return unused, unopened items within 100 days of your order date, provided they’re in original packaging and resaleable condition. Sterling Chess will cover the cost of shipping return items under our 100-day free returns policy.
All Sterling Chess products are backed by Australian Consumer Law and include a minimum 12-month Australian warranty. If there’s an issue with your product, our team is here to help and will work to make it right.
Click here to view our full returns policy.
If you're shopping for a new chess set, you're in the right place—and here's why.
1. We know chess inside and out
At Sterling Chess, we're not just another online store. We’re chess lovers, players, collectors, and game night fanatics.
That means we care about quality, balance, and feel—and we only stock sets we’d use ourselves. From tournament-grade boards to handcrafted wooden pieces, we’ve got what real players want.
2. Unmatched variety for every player
Whether you're just learning or a lifelong grandmaster, we have something for you.
Looking for a folding set for travel? A stunning showpiece for your home? A kid-friendly set for your budding chess champion? We’ve got it all—and more.
3. Fast and FREE shipping on all orders
Shipping is FREE on all Sterling Chess orders.
We ship quickly from local and international warehouses, so you’re not waiting weeks to get your game on.
Most orders are packed and sent within 24–48 hours. Plus, you’ll get tracking updates every step of the way.
4. Customer support that actually helps
Have a question? Need help choosing a set? Our friendly team is ready to help—no scripts, no bots, just real people who care about your experience.
You can call our team anytime between business hours on (03) 7037 0931 or email us at support@sterlingchess.com.au. Alternatively, you can use our live chat during business hours to contact our helpful support team.
5. Thousands of happy customers
Don't just take our word for it—our reviews speak for themselves. Sterling Chess is trusted by thousands of players who keep coming back for more. Great products. Great service. No hassle.
6. Classic games, too
We're all about chess—but we also carry backgammon, checkers, poker and other timeless strategy games. If you love the classics, you’ll feel right at home.
Ready to make your move?
Choose a chess set that fits your style, skill level, and space—and enjoy the Sterling Chess difference. You’ll love how it looks. You’ll love how it plays. And you’ll love buying from a team that loves the game just as much as you do.
Looking for an affordable set from the Match of the Century? These 1972 Reykjavik Championship chess pieces reproduce the Jaques of London set used when Bobby Fischer played Boris Spassky in Iceland.
The officers are compact, with a low rook and a small pawn, so the set sits neatly on a standard board. With a 96mm king, it suits a board with 50mm squares. Each set is handmade in India.
The dark pieces are sheesham and the light pieces are boxwood. Two spare queens are included, but no board or box. See more historical sets in our reproduction chess pieces collection.
The 1972 world championship in Reykjavik, Iceland, was called the Match of the Century. Bobby Fischer beat Boris Spassky to become world champion, and the match was followed far beyond the chess world.
The set used for the match was made by Jaques of London, the firm behind the first Staunton chess set. This reproduction is modelled on that match set.
Compared with our other 1972 sets, this one is more compact through the officers and pawns. It fits nicely on a board with 50mm squares, which suits most home boards.
We carry three 1972 reproductions, and each is a slightly different turning. Compare this set with our 1972 Fischer Spassky ebonised pieces and 1972 Fischer Spassky Low Knight pieces.
Sheesham is a warm, reddish-brown hardwood from India with visible grain. Against boxwood, it gives the set a natural, classic look rather than a stark black and white one.
The pieces are weighted for a solid feel, and the full set comes to about 1,230g. Thick green felt on each base protects your board and keeps moves smooth.
It's one of the most affordable of our 1972 reproductions, which makes it a great choice for a first wooden set with a famous story.
If you'd prefer the black and white look of the match itself, the ebonised version is the one to compare. The compact pieces also make this set a good fit for younger players and smaller hands, and the spare queens are handy for pawn promotion. It's a set that works just as well for casual games at home as it does for practice before a club tournament.
"This is a great-value way to own a set from the Match of the Century. The sheesham gives it a warm, natural look rather than the black and white of the match board, so pick the ebonised set if you want that look. For a first wooden set with a famous story, it's hard to beat."
- Blake Sterling, CEO & Founder, Sterling Chess
A board with 50mm squares is the best match. Our Bud Rosewood & Maple 48cm board and Sheesham & Maple 48cm board both have 50mm squares, or see our full chess boards collection.
They're handmade in India, so each piece can show small natural differences in grain.
No. You get the 34 pieces only. The board and box are sold separately.
Yes, they're weighted with thick green felt bases. The full set weighs about 1,230g.
The set used in Reykjavik was made by Jaques of London.
Sheesham is an Indian hardwood with a warm, reddish-brown colour. It's also called Indian rosewood.
It's a more compact turning in sheesham. Our other 1972 sets are slightly larger through the officers.
Yes, one in each colour, so you get 34 pieces.
Wipe them with a soft, dry cloth. Keep them out of direct sunlight and away from heat and water, as the pieces aren't waterproof.
Spec |
Detail |
King height |
96mm (3.7 inch) |
King base diameter |
42mm (1.6 inch) |
Queen height |
77mm (3.0 inch) |
Queen base diameter |
39mm (1.5 inch) |
Bishop height |
68mm (2.6 inch) |
Knight height |
64mm (2.5 inch) |
Rook height |
52mm (2.0 inch) |
Officer base diameter |
35mm (1.3 inch), bishop, knight and rook |
Pawn height |
46mm (1.8 inch) |
Pawn base diameter |
29mm (1.1 inch) |
Dark pieces |
Sheesham |
Light pieces |
Boxwood |
Weighting |
Weighted, thick green felt bases |
Piece count |
34, including two spare queens |
Total set weight |
1,230g approx. |
Recommended square size |
50mm |
Origin |
Handmade in India |
32 chess pieces in sheesham and boxwood
2 spare queens, one per colour
Chess board not included
Storage box not included
All products sold by Sterling Chess are backed by a 12 month limited manufacturer warranty. This covers manufacturing defects and cracking, and ensures every product is 100% genuine. If you need assistance, our team is only a call or email away.
Is shipping really free?
Yes — we offer free standard shipping on all orders across Australia, with no minimum spend. The price you see at checkout is the price you pay.
Are there any exceptions to free shipping?
No exceptions. Every order ships free, regardless of size, weight, or order value.
How long will my order take to arrive?
Orders are typically dispatched within 1–2 business days, with delivery times depending on your location. You'll receive tracking details by email once your order is on its way.
Do you ship to all areas of Australia?
Yes, we deliver Australia-wide, including regional and remote areas — all at no shipping cost to you.
Can I track my order?
Absolutely. As soon as your order ships, we'll email you a tracking number so you can follow its journey to your door.
What if I need my order quickly?
Get in touch before ordering and we'll do our best to help. Standard shipping is free, and we'll advise on the fastest available option for your area. To contact us, simply email us at support@sterlingchess.com.au, call (03) 7037 0931 or open the live chat.
Changed your mind? You can return unused, unopened items within 100 days of your order date, provided they’re in original packaging and resaleable condition. Sterling Chess will cover the cost of shipping return items under our 100-day free returns policy.
All Sterling Chess products are backed by Australian Consumer Law and include a minimum 12-month Australian warranty. If there’s an issue with your product, our team is here to help and will work to make it right.
Click here to view our full returns policy.
If you're shopping for a new chess set, you're in the right place—and here's why.
1. We know chess inside and out
At Sterling Chess, we're not just another online store. We’re chess lovers, players, collectors, and game night fanatics.
That means we care about quality, balance, and feel—and we only stock sets we’d use ourselves. From tournament-grade boards to handcrafted wooden pieces, we’ve got what real players want.
2. Unmatched variety for every player
Whether you're just learning or a lifelong grandmaster, we have something for you.
Looking for a folding set for travel? A stunning showpiece for your home? A kid-friendly set for your budding chess champion? We’ve got it all—and more.
3. Fast and FREE shipping on all orders
Shipping is FREE on all Sterling Chess orders.
We ship quickly from local and international warehouses, so you’re not waiting weeks to get your game on.
Most orders are packed and sent within 24–48 hours. Plus, you’ll get tracking updates every step of the way.
4. Customer support that actually helps
Have a question? Need help choosing a set? Our friendly team is ready to help—no scripts, no bots, just real people who care about your experience.
You can call our team anytime between business hours on (03) 7037 0931 or email us at support@sterlingchess.com.au. Alternatively, you can use our live chat during business hours to contact our helpful support team.
5. Thousands of happy customers
Don't just take our word for it—our reviews speak for themselves. Sterling Chess is trusted by thousands of players who keep coming back for more. Great products. Great service. No hassle.
6. Classic games, too
We're all about chess—but we also carry backgammon, checkers, poker and other timeless strategy games. If you love the classics, you’ll feel right at home.
Ready to make your move?
Choose a chess set that fits your style, skill level, and space—and enjoy the Sterling Chess difference. You’ll love how it looks. You’ll love how it plays. And you’ll love buying from a team that loves the game just as much as you do.