1968 Roberto Clemente Pittsburgh Pirates Game-Used Glove

Roberto Clemente’s Game-Used Glove: A Testament to Baseball Greatness

A Legacy of Excellence and Humanity

Roberto Clemente, a name that resonates with baseball fans and humanitarians alike, was a Hall of Fame right fielder for the Pittsburgh Pirates. His life was tragically cut short on December 31, 1972, at the age of 38, while he was en route to deliver aid to earthquake victims in Nicaragua. Despite his untimely death, Clemente’s legacy endures, both on and off the field. He was instrumental in leading the Pirates to two World Series titles in 1960 and 1971 and amassed an impressive array of personal accolades, including 15 All-Star selections, 12 Gold Glove Awards, and the 1966 National League MVP title.

The Glove of a Champion

This auction offers a rare opportunity to own a piece of Clemente’s storied career—a game-used glove from his 1968 Gold Glove campaign. This Rawlings professional model XGG-1 outfielder’s glove is a testament to Clemente’s prowess on the field. The glove features Clemente’s iconic number 21, marked in black on the back of the pinky finger sleeve, a style consistent with game-used items from the mid-1960s through 1972. Crafted from Rawlings top-grade tanned ‘Heart of the Hide’ Horween leather, the glove is bound with tanned rawhide laces and nylon stitching, showcasing the quality and durability befitting a player of Clemente’s caliber.

Features of the Glove

• Material: Top-grade tanned ‘Heart of the Hide’ Horween leather
• Design: Closed ‘FastBack’ wrist enclosure with a horizontal finger ‘Holster’
• Webbing: ‘Basket’ web with a dual-laced palm hinge
• Pocket: ‘Deep Well Pocket’ for optimal ball control
• Labeling: Red silk Rawlings label and branded ‘Rawlings’ on the heel

This glove, presented to us as game-used, shows excellent wear, indicative of its use by one of baseball’s greatest players. It comes directly from the collection of Reggie Jackson and is accompanied by a letter from PSA/DNA, further enhancing its provenance and authenticity.

A Piece of Baseball History

Owning this glove is not just about possessing a piece of sports memorabilia; it is about holding a fragment of baseball history. Roberto Clemente’s impact on the game and his humanitarian efforts have left an indelible mark, making this glove a symbol of his enduring legacy. For those interested in expanding their baseball memorabilia collection, this glove represents a unique opportunity to connect with the past and celebrate the achievements of a true baseball legend.

Explore more about our sports memorabilia auctions and discover how you can consign your own pieces of history with Grey Flannel Auctions. Whether you are looking to sell sports memorabilia or simply appraise your collection, we are here to assist you in preserving the legacy of sports icons like Roberto Clemente.

* This text was generated from the original auction listing.