Nations Attic 2026 Diving Into History + More
Lot 87:
Description
This helmet was made by arguably the most famous American helmet maker, the A.J. Morse & Son Company. Located in Boston, Massachusetts, this company started making diving helmets and related equipment in the 1830s. Morse would design some of the most iconic helmets ever conceived. In addition to helmets, the company would make all other related diving equipment, as well as firefighting gear. Morse helmets have been known worldwide by divers for almost 200 years! The company is still in business in Wisconsin today.This distinguished A.J. Morse & Son Inc. diving helmet, manufactured circa 1909, represents a pinnacle of early 20th-century maritime engineering. Constructed with a robust copper body and original brass hardware, the piece is remarkably well-preserved and features its original manufacturer’s ID plate. A hallmark of its authenticity is the matching serial number, 1487, which is stamped in all six critical locations: the bonnet and breastplate neck rings, as well as all four brails. This uniformity of numbering not only confirms the helmet’s integrity but also allows us to date its manufacture to right after the turn of the century.Architecturally, this helmet serves as a transitional artifact in diving history. It features the classic vertical oval side ports, a design utilized just prior to the shift toward round windows by AJ Morse. The three-light configuration includes a communications cup situated on the upper left-front of the bonnet, with the exhaust valve positioned on the rear right. The air fitting is centered on the back, adjacent to the communication fitting on the upper left. For operational safety, the original spring-loaded safety latch remains present on the rear, designed to prevent the accidental separation of the bonnet from the breastplate during submersion.What elevates this specimen to a premier collector’s tier is its exceptional documented history. The helmet was owned and utilized by the O.I. Carr Company – Divers of Burlington, Vermont. Unlike many surviving helmets of this era, this example is accompanied by copies of original vintage photographs showing this exact helmet in active service. This rare photographic provenance provides a tangible link to its industrial past, transforming the helmet from a mere object into a narrated piece of history.The helmet is offered in unmistakable original condition, complete with all glass, twelve wing nuts, four brails, window guards, and its original safety pin. It retains specialized components, including an original Morse non-return valve, modified internal air supply piping, and two internal reproducers. A notable historical detail is the leather strap with two brass rings on the front of the breastplate, which is clearly visible in the included archival photos. While the bonnet exhibits typical “working dents” consistent with professional use, the integrity of the piece remains uncompromised. Evidence of a mid-century update is seen in the Craftsweld stamped communication fittings; these modifications, combined with the 1950s action photos, prove this helmet was a trusted tool of the trade for over four decades.The display stand in the photos is not included. The option to purchase the stand at a discounted price will be available after the auction. All diving helmets in this auction will be accompanied by a certificate of authenticity from Nations Attic. The certificate will have a unique number that will match the number on a tamperproof hologram decal placed inside the helmet. This information will be kept on permanent file at Nations Attic and help ensure the provenance of the helmet and authenticity.All items will be shipped with a signature required upon delivery and full insurance either via FedEx or the USPS Priority Mail. Worldwide shipping is available; however, no ocean freight will be offered on large items. DHL express is an option for international shipments under 600 pounds via air. A shipping quote prior to the auction can be provided by emailing your postal code.
Share this lot:
