In a modest London home, what appears to be an ordinary residence from the outside conceals an extraordinary secret within. Neil Scallan, an IT manager by profession, has transformed his living space into the world's most comprehensive shrine to perhaps the most famous board game ever created.
A Record-Breaking Obsession
Scallan's collection isn't just impressive—it's officially monumental. With over 2,500 different Monopoly sets meticulously catalogued and displayed, he holds the Guinness World Record for the largest collection of its kind. The sheer scale becomes apparent when you realise his home contains more Monopoly editions than most people will ever see in their lifetime.
From Humble Beginnings to Global Phenomenon
The journey began unexpectedly in 2005 when Scallan purchased a Star Wars-themed Monopoly set. "I wasn't a collector before that," he admits. That single purchase ignited a passion that would eventually consume his home and spare time. Today, his collection spans every conceivable variation, from classic London editions to obscure international versions.
Rarities and Unusual Finds
Among the thousands of sets, certain treasures stand out:
- The circular board: A rare 1930s circular version that defies the traditional square design
- World War II escape editions: Special sets created for prisoners of war containing hidden maps and escape tools
- Global variations
- Themed editions: Including a solid gold set worth approximately £250,000
Living with Monopoly
The collection has inevitably taken over Scallan's living space. "My wife is very understanding," he laughs, noting that board games fill every available surface. The dining table serves as permanent display space, while custom shelving units house the bulk of the collection. Despite the spatial challenges, Scallan finds joy in sharing his passion with visitors and fellow enthusiasts.
More Than Just Collecting
For Scallan, the collection represents more than accumulated objects. "It's about the stories behind each set," he explains. Many pieces in his collection have fascinating histories, from wartime survival tools to cultural artifacts reflecting how different societies have adapted the classic game.
His expertise has made him a sought-after authority, regularly authenticating rare sets for auction houses and fellow collectors. The collection continues to grow, with Scallan always on the lookout for new additions to his extraordinary assembly of the world's most famous board game.
