Michael Jackson's 1983 Motown Moonwalk Glove Set For Auction

The glitter glove worn by Michael Jackson during his first televised moonwalk is set to go under the hammer.

The glove, worn during Jackson's performance of 'Billie Jean' at Motown's 25th-anniversary TV special in 1983, is expected to fetch between $40,000 and $60,000.

Unlike the late singer's later custom-made crystal gloves, this one was store-bought and customised with rhinestones.

It is also left-handed, where as Jackson's others were made for his right hand.

The glove has been in the care of founding Commodores member Walter 'Clyde' Orange since Jackson gave it him as a gift in 1983.

In a letter accompanying the lot, Clyde said he had grown close to Jackson in the 1970s and  shared a running joke that whenever he saw the singer he would ask for his autograph.

But Jackson always declined because he felt Clyde was more famous, the singer wrote.

Clyde continued: “Years later, in 1983, we both performed at the Motown 25: Yesterday, Today, Forever tribute show.

“After the performance, Michael came up behind me and put his hand over my eyes and said, 'Guess who?' I knew who it was because I felt the one glove on his left hand and no glove on the other.

“When I once again asked him for his autograph, Michael gave me the glove he wore that night instead, still refusing to give me his autograph!”

Michael Jackson performs at Motown's 25th anniversary in 1983.

Proceeds from the sale will benefit MusiCares, which helps musicians struggling with substance abuse.

Other items at the Music Icons auction, which will take place at The Hard Rock Cafe in New York this November, include Jimi Hendrix lyrics and a Madonna demo tape.

Michael Jackson memorabilia