Nations Attic 2026 Diving Into History + More
Lot 106:
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 1908, represents a pinnacle of early 20th-century maritime engineering. Constructed with a robust copper body and original brass hardware, the piece is well-preserved and features its original manufacturer’s ID plate. Its authenticity is the matching serial number, 1239, which is stamped on the bonnet and breastplate neck rings. The four brails are likely later replacements; they do not have a number stamped on them. Serial #1239 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 the exhaust valve positioned on the rear right. The air fitting is centered on the back. Both of these standard components are in their original positions. For operational safety, the original safety latch remains present on the rear, designed to prevent the accidental separation of the bonnet from the breastplate during submersion. On that note, we currently can not separate the bonnet from the breastplate. This is likely due to the old gasket expanding over the decades. The helmet will be shipped with the bonnet and breastplate together. The helmet is offered in good condition, complete with all glass (front port glass is cracked but still structurally sound), twelve wing nuts, four brails, window guards, and its original safety pin. It retains specialized components, including an original A.J. Morse & Son pre-1908 non-return valve. The bonnet exhibits typical small "working dents" consistent with professional use while being well taken care of. The internal air vents have been removed. The faceplate does thread on and off with ease. This 100+ year old relic retains the classic appearance of an American diving helmet that was on the job so long ago!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. A shipping quote prior to the auction can be provided by emailing your postal code.
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