1956 Sandy Koufax Brooklyn Dodgers Game-Used Glove

A Legendary Piece of Baseball History: Sandy Koufax’s Game-Used Glove

The Rise of a Baseball Icon

Sandy Koufax, a name that resonates with reverence in the annals of Major League Baseball, is celebrated as one of the greatest pitchers to ever grace the mound. Yet, his journey to baseball immortality was not a straightforward path. Initially, Koufax excelled in basketball during his high school years and played first base when he did venture onto the baseball field. However, destiny had other plans for him. At the tender age of 19, Koufax signed with the Brooklyn Dodgers, having pitched in only 12 games prior. His early years were marked by adjustments and learning, but by 1961, Koufax had transformed into a formidable force, leading the league with 269 strikeouts and earning the moniker “The Left Arm of God.”

A Glove with a Storied Past

We are honored to present a remarkable piece of baseball memorabilia, a game-used glove from Sandy Koufax’s second season in the majors. This Rawlings glove, measuring 11.5 inches from base to fingertips, is a testament to Koufax’s early years with the Dodgers. In 1956, the young southpaw started 10 games, striking out 30 batters over 58.2 innings. The Dodgers clinched the National League pennant that year, although they fell to the New York Yankees in a seven-game World Series.

• Distinctive Features: The glove boasts unique callouts to Koufax, including his fading uniform number “32” and the nickname “Koo Foo” inscribed in black marker.
• Design Elements: It features a “Deep Well Pocket,” an X-laced “Anchored Web,” and a “Snugger Adjustment” wrist strap, with the red silk Rawlings manufacturer’s wrist label still intact.
• Historical Significance: This glove was presented to us as game-used and shows excellent wear, adding to its authenticity and allure.

Provenance and Legacy

This glove’s provenance is as intriguing as its history. It was acquired directly from Koufax’s 1956 teammate, Ken Lehman, in the 1980s. Accompanied by a Letter of Authenticity from PSA/DNA, this artifact is a tangible connection to Koufax’s illustrious career. The glove also bears a dark stain on the palm, speculated to be pine tar, a nod to the era before stringent checks for grip substances were implemented.

For collectors and enthusiasts, this glove is more than just a piece of leather; it is a fragment of baseball history, encapsulating the early promise and eventual greatness of Sandy Koufax. As part of our sports memorabilia auctions, this item offers a rare opportunity to own a piece of the legacy of a Hall of Famer who redefined excellence on the mound. Whether you are looking to sell MLB items or consign baseball memorabilia, Grey Flannel Auctions is your trusted partner in preserving and celebrating the rich history of sports.

* This text was generated from the original auction listing.