This lot is closed. Bidding ended on 12/10/2001.
This history-drenched catcher's mitt used by Hall of Famer Roy Campanella is a living tribute to the first black catcher to play in the big leagues, bringing alive Campy's nonpareil defensive skills so crucial to the five pennant-winning Brooklyn Dodger teams of the late 1940s and 1950s.The stocky backstop was regarded as a pro's pro and his skills and leadership abilities were evident for a decade during which he won three MVP awards. If Campy's bat was strong (he set a record for catchers with 41 homers in 1953), behind the dish he was a master of his domain. One can almost see Campy steadying this mitt and giving the pitcher the sign, hear the "pop" of a fastball denting the pocket, and feel its slap as Campy tagged a too-daring runner out at home. The Wilson mitt sports a lights facsimile signature on the front and shows good game use, its laces still tight as a drum and its rich brown leather soft and supple but as rugged as its owner. The glove was owned by a New York newspaper photographer of the day and then by his grandson, from whom a letter of authenticty is included.