Olympic

The Olympic pinball machine, crafted by Empire Wood Working Company of Baltimore, Maryland in 1932, is a rare and significant piece of pinball history. As a pure mechanical, walnut-cabinet tabletop/counter game with no electronic components and no flippers (which would not be invented for another 15 years), it is a fascinating relic from the earliest days of pinball.

Gameplay-wise, the Olympic is notable for its simplicity yet challenge. Players can enjoy 10 balls for just 5 cents, an affordable price point reflecting the machine's humble origins. A disc hole at the top of the playfield doubles the entire score, adding a thrilling element to gameplay for the era.

The Olympic's design and theme are also noteworthy: its cabinet is made from walnut, and its Olympic Sports theme directly ties to the 1932 Summer Olympics, held that same year in Los Angeles. Metal and walnut stands were available from the manufacturer at extra cost, and the game could be set up for either 1-cent or 5-cent play. Unfortunately, there is limited information available about the machine's designer, but this early pinball machine remains an intriguing piece of history for enthusiasts and collectors alike.