Rick DeMont
Olympic Swimmer and World Record Holder · Swimming - Olympics
USA Olympic Team / University of Arizona
Era
Modern Era (likely 2000s - 2020s)
Item Type
Digital scan/Photo
Condition
Excellent. The digital image shows a crisp, bold signature with no fading, bleeding, or physical item wear visible.
Rarity
Moderate. DeMont is a consistent signer within the swimming community and for fans of Olympic history, but is not considered a prolific mainstream signer.
Overall Assessment
A solid, authentic-looking example of a legendary Olympic figure's signature. It is a clean, aesthetically pleasing 'slab' style signature ideal for a swimming history collection.
Authenticity Assessment
Highly likely authentic. The signature displays natural flow, confident pen speed, and consistent letter formation typical of DeMont's later signing style.
Signature Style
Stylized script; typically features a prominent capital 'R' that loops into a condensed 'ick', followed by a large, sweeping 'D' that concludes with a fluid, elongated tail representing 'eMont'.
Signature Characteristics
The signature shows high pen speed with no hesitation marks. There is a characteristic heavy pressure on the downstroke of the 'R' and a very light, airy loop on the 'D'. The baseline is slightly ascending.
Ink & Medium
Black felt-tip marker (likely a Sharpie) on a white surface, appearing as a digital image or high-resolution scan displayed on a monitor.
Item Description
The image shows a signature on a white background being viewed on a computer monitor. The original item appears to be a card or paper stock specifically for the purpose of collecting an autograph.
Estimated Value
$20.00 - $50.00 USD. Values for DeMont vary; items with historical inscriptions regarding the 1972 Olympics can command higher premiums.
Comparison to Known Examples
This example is highly consistent with verified signatures from SwimSwam events and Arizona Wildcats alumni signings from the last 15 years.
Authentication Tips
Look for the specific 'loopy' construction of the 'D' and the way the terminal stroke of the 'R' leads directly into the mid-signature. Forgers often struggle with the fluid speed of his 'M' and 't' connection.
Certification Recommendation
JSA (James Spence Authentication) or PSA/DNA. Both are industry leaders for Olympic athletics and provide certificates that significantly bolster resale value.
Red Flags
No significant red flags observed. The ink flow is consistent with a genuine hand-signed mark rather than a stamp or autopen.
Provenance Notes
For Olympic autographs, documentation linking the signature to a specific swim meet, coaching clinic, or alumni event is the standard for establishing provenance.
Historical Context
Rick DeMont is famously known for winning the 400m freestyle gold at the 1972 Munich Olympics, only to be disqualified later due to a prohibited substance in his asthma medication, a decision that remains a point of historical contention.
Market Trends
Stable. Interest in 1970s Olympic icons remains a niche but dedicated market. DeMont's story of the lost 1972 gold medal keeps his historical relevance high among collectors.
Investment Potential
Low to Moderate. Primarily a 'collector's piece' rather than a high-growth financial investment, though it holds sentimental and historical value for Olympic enthusiasts.
Similar Autographs
Mark Spitz, Shane Gould, Jim Montgomery (1970s era Olympic swimmers).
Display & Preservation
Keep away from direct sunlight; if the physical item is displayed, use UV-protected acrylic to prevent the black ink from turning brown or fading.
Interesting Facts
DeMont went on to become an world-class coach at the University of Arizona. His signature changed from a more legible full-name script in the 70s to this more abstract, fast-form loop style in his coaching years.