Circa 1956 Roy Campanella Brooklyn Dodgers Game-Used Catcher’s Mitt

Roy Campanella’s Catcher’s Mitt: A Testament to Baseball Legacy

An Icon of Baseball History

Roy Campanella, a name that resonates with reverence in the annals of baseball history, is celebrated as one of the greatest catchers to ever grace the diamond. A Hall of Fame inductee, Campanella’s illustrious career was marked by numerous accolades, including being an 8-time All-Star, a 3-time National League MVP, and a World Series Champion. His career, however, was tragically cut short due to an automobile accident that left him paralyzed. Yet, his legacy endures, immortalized through rare artifacts like his personal catcher’s mitt.

The Unique Catcher’s Mitt

This extraordinary piece of baseball memorabilia is a “Wilson” manufactured “230CL” model catcher’s mitt, a personal model produced specifically for Roy Campanella under an endorsement contract. The glove features Campanella’s facsimile signature stamped into the mitt, along with the designation “Professional Model.” While the model 230CL was available to other players, none bore Campanella’s name, making this mitt a truly unique artifact.

• Manufacturer: “Wilson” with a worn manufacturer’s tag on the outer thumb and pointer finger area.
• Signature: Roy Campanella’s facsimile signature stamped on the inner pinky area.
• Condition: Shows outstanding use with some lace missing around the outer pinky area and wrist strap, and a tear in the leather near the thumb.

A Glove with a Story

Presented to us as game-used, this mitt is accompanied by a Letter of Authenticity (LOA) from Esken and a letter circa 1993 from the original owner. The owner received it from Doug Anderson, a former Dodgers bat boy who also tried out for the team in 1964. This provenance adds a layer of historical intrigue and authenticity to the mitt, enhancing its value and appeal to collectors.

Why This Mitt Matters

This catcher’s mitt is not just a piece of equipment; it is a tangible connection to the legacy of Roy Campanella and the golden era of baseball. It stands as a testament to Campanella’s enduring influence on the sport and his indomitable spirit. For collectors and enthusiasts, this mitt offers a rare opportunity to own a piece of baseball history that is both exclusive and deeply significant.

Explore more about such exclusive sports memorabilia and discover the stories behind these iconic artifacts. If you have your own piece of history, consider consigning your baseball memorabilia with us. For those interested in acquiring such rare items, our MLB auctions offer a treasure trove of baseball collectibles for sale.

* This text was generated from the original auction listing.