Rare Marciano boxing gloves coming to auction

September 30, 2012 By Editor

Goldin Auctions will sell the only known pair of Rocky Marciano autographed sparring gloves in its Fall 2012 Premier Auction beginning on Oct. 10.

According to the company, Marciano gave the gloves to a long time friend in 1951 so that his children could "fight" with each other. They’re personalized to a friend indicating use by Marciano in preparation for his championship fight with Jersey Joe Walcott in 1952.

Marciano gave the gloves away in 1969, not long before he died but the date 10/51 is written inside of the right glove in vintage blue ballpoint. Both Everlast boxing gloves are signed on the thumb "To Mario, Your Pal, Rocky '69". Included with the lot is a copy of a Letter of Authenticity signed by the man who received the gloves from Marciano. The letter details his relationship with the late boxer and the provenance of the gloves.

There is a copy of a picture of the former owner with Marciano along with a copy of a newspaper article mentioning both people by name.

Marciano finished his career with a 37-0 record and is the only boxing champion to hold the heavyweight title and finish undefeated throughout his career—owning the belt from September 23, 1952, to April 27, 1956. He died in a plane crash in Iowa on August 31, 1969, the night before his 46^th birthday.