"Here is the 'missing' portrait of Fitzroy champion Garry Wilson, part of a priceless haul of memorabilia being sought by Brisbane Lion historians and the police.

The oil painting, considered a masterpiece of the wispy, five time club champion and one of Fitzroy's most courageous players, is safely in the hands of Fitzroy Football Club's secretary, accountant Bill Atherton.

'It came to me from an anonymous person who has had it in trust for an appropriate day to be handed over,' Atherton said.

A swag of old Fitzroy collectibles are still held by die-hard Lions fans who have safeguarded what they regard as precious memorabilia since those dramatic days before Brisbane annexed Fitzroy in 1996.

Other items believed to be closeted away and gathering dust are premiership caps dating from 1885-1922, pennants, photographs, Brownlow certificates for triple medal winner Haydn Bunton, and Wilfred "Chicken" Smallhorn.

Atherton was surprised to receive the painting, which he will hand over next month to the Fitzroy-Brisbane Lions historical committee for display at the Manningham Club, Bulleen. Chairman of the historical committee and former Fitzroy secretary Arthur Wilson said his group has been able to honour all the club's 100-game players, best and fairest, winners and Brownlow medalists, but was anxious to obtain relics of old Fitzroy."