This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 11/4/2017
Harold “Dutch” Smith was a two-time U.S. Olympic diver, winning the gold medal in the 10 Meter platform and getting silver in the 3 Meter springboard at the 1932 Games in Los Angeles. Presented here is a swimsuit Smith donned during these ’32 Summer Games. Interestingly enough, the U.S.team actually refined their swim attire for the Games, switching to a single piece suit to make it less speed-resistant; though it was still made of wool. The high cut legs and wide arm and neck openings did give the swimmers more freedom of movement.
Striking for its simplicity, the black singlet has a full-color US Olympic Team shield patch sewn to the front. The left shoulder strap retains its original black button. There are several small holes throughout the piece, most noticeably in the crouch area. There are clubhouse repairs on the front under the shield, on the back and in the crotch area. The suit retains a partially frayed manufacturer’s label in the neck with a “Officially Approved by the American Olympic Clothing Comm.” hang tag. A tremendously rare suit worn by Olympic Gold Medalist Dutch Smith during the 1932 Games.
This piece includes a signed letter of provenance from the San Diego Hall of Champions.