Professionals were paid to play by clubs whose entry into cup competitions was restricted to The FA Cup (or The FA Trophy). Amateurs, on the other hand, did not get paid and had their own cup competition, The FA Amateur Cup.

In 1974, with many of the top amateur players receiving payment for playing, The FA abolished the distinction, scrapped the Amateur Cup and introduced The FA Vase for the majority of clubs who had previously played in the Amateur Cup.

Well over 200 clubs entered in the first season (1974-75) and Hoddesdon Town of the Spartan League beat Epsom and Ewell of the Surrey Senior League 2-1 in the final at Wembley before a 9,000 crowd. In 1999, 446 clubs entered, with two qualifying rounds preceding the six proper rounds, semi-final and final. 

Winchester City won The FA Vase in 2004 following their impressive display against AFC Sudbury at Birmingham City FC.  The Wessex League side came away with a 2-0 victory to break the Suffolk club's hearts yet again following defeat to Brigg Town 12 months earlier.

In 2005 Stuart Beavon spurred Didcot Town on to victory in The FA Vase Final at Tottenham with two, fine second-half goals to leave AFC Sudbury cursing their luck for the third year on the trot.

Then in 2006 Nantwich Town lifted The FA Vase for the first time in their 121-year history thanks to a goal in each half from skipper Andy Kinsey.