Roy Camapanella Bronzed Wilson “Lifetime Gold Glove Award” From Campanella Estate

A successful catcher is defined by his ability to handle the pitching staff, throw out would-be stealers, and keep errant throws and pitches in front of him. Roy Campanella possessed all these skills in addition to being one of the best hitting catchers of all-time. The man they called "Campy" was the complete package, leading National League catchers in putouts six times, and clubbing 242 home runs in his 10-year Major League career. From 1948-1957, Roy Campanella was securely anchored behind home plate for the Brooklyn Dodgers. He caught in five World Series, won the NL Most Valuable Player award in 1951, 1953 and 1955, and was the first black catcher in Major League Baseball history. This award originates from the estate of Roy Campanella and is the equivalent of his lifetime "gold glove" award. In 1957, the baseball glove manufacturer Rawlings invented the idea of the Gold Glove to commemorate the best fielding performance at each position in baseball. The prompting of this award was most likely due in part to the fact that the inception of the official award coincided with Campy's final season, in addition to the fact that it was instituted by Rawlings as opposed to Wilson (Campy's glove maker of choice). Mounted on a presentational plaque is a "bronzed" Wilson model A2420 Roy Campanella model catcher's mitt. Beneath the mitt is brass plaque that reads, "To Roy Campanella in Appreciation of His Unselfish Contribution to Baseball-Mr. W.P. Holmes, President of Wilson Sporting Goods Co." The glove is presumed to be game used, appearing to have some usage wear (visible by looking at interior hand padding and pocket). An accompanying photo shows Campy with a similar Wilson model glove. Plaque measures 13" by 13". Includes a letter of provenance from Roy's late wife Roxie Campanella.