As is the case with most of the early Clay material in the modern hobby, these gloves derive from the trophy cases of Louisville's Columbia Street Gym and the personal collection of Joe Martin, who took a young Clay under his wing and introduced him to the sport which would earn his immortality. A letter of provenance from internationally renowned boxing memorabilia expert Craig Hamilton attests to the background of the ten ounce relics.

The gloves are burgundy leather with a white "Rawlings" label at each wrist, and an "AAU" tag denoting glove weight at interior right wrist. Each interior wrist bears commission stamping reading "Nat'l Toledo 1960 Approved," and are initialed by the commission inspectors. Original laces are present. Wear is light but definite, most evident in sweat staining of the interior, as is appropriate for brief amateur tournament use. A rare and very special opportunity to own genuine fight worn gear from the early evolution of boxing's greatest name. Letter of provenance from Craig Hamilton.