Even though his stunning grab of Vic Wertz' 420-foot drive to the deepest recesses of the Polo Grounds in Game 1 of the 1954 World Series remains the most famous defensive play in the sport's history it was in 1957 the first of two seasons in which this particular glove saw on-the-field action that Mays began his 12-year collection of Gold Glove awards.A notarized letter of provenance from an earlier consignor in a 2000 sale at auction explains that the glove was passed from Mays to a Giants bat boy who then traded it with bat boy Eddie Carr of the New York Yankees. The consignor's father and Carr's brother were work associates at the New York City postal union and the Mays glove served as a token of gratitude for assistance in a contract negotiation.

A second letter is from Mays himself typed on Giants team letterhead and signed at the close. The text in full reads:

"To Whom It May Concern I have personally inspected this New York Giants glove and deem it to be authentic as used by me. This game worn glove has all of the characteristics as preferred by me. The glove was manufactured by MacGregor and Made in the USA. It is a model G101. My factory stamped signature appears on the inside pinky. The glove shows much use from being used in many professional games. This glove was given as a gift to the New York Yankees bat boy. This is a very special game worn glove and worthy of any first class baseball collection. Sincerely [signed] Willie Mays."

The glove exhibits solid wear remaining surprisingly soft and supple over a half century since closing out the Polo Grounds on the left hand of the Giants' greatest star. Some ancient marker on the thumb has faded beyond legibility but a modern sharpie autograph on the pinky retains 9/10 boldness. It's an absolutely spectacular representation from the pinnacle of Mays' amazing career.

LOA from MEARS Authentic.

Letter of provenance from Willie Mays.

Letter of provenance from owner 1958-2000.

Full LOA from PSA/DNA (for letter of provenance).