Beginning the session with a 14-11 lead, Murphy started a comeback that, at 15-15, had him the bookies favourite. The 31st frame was an epic 63 minute 31 seconds long but Bingham eventually took it to close in on victory.
He made a steady break of 65 to go 17-15 in front and clinched the title with a brilliant 88. In doing so, he became the oldest champion since 45 year old Ray Reardon in 1978.
Collecting £300,000 as the winner, he should rise from tenth to second in the world rankings.
Stuart Bingham salutes the crowd who had cheered him on both days of the final.
It had been a good final, enjoyed by both players who were genuine in their respect of each other.
Barry Hearn, who has done so much in the last five years to turn around world snooker, and Kell Brook (IBF welterweight world champion).
Fred Done of Betfred who were so welcome back to the Crucible this year.
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