Lot 48:
Rare A.J. Morse & Son Five Bolt 19th Century Diving Helmet
Description
One of the most desirable and rare American diving helmets is the five-bolt pattern manufactured by the A.J. Morse & Son company of Boston, Massachusetts. Often referred to as the US Navy Mark 1, this style was utilized by both the Navy and commercial divers throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, predating the introduction of the iconic Mark V in 1916. Because most helmets in the Navy’s inventory were retrofitted into threaded styles after 1916, surviving original five-bolt examples are exceptionally rare. This specific model is distinguished by its unique construction, where the bonnet and breastplate are secured by five large bolts at the neck ring rather than the traditional threaded design favored by later models.
Based on its serial numbers, this rare surviving example dates to the 1890s to 1900 period. Its rarity is further enhanced by its nearly full serial-number-matching condition; the number is clearly stamped on both the bonnet and breastplate neck rings, as well as on all four intact original brails. The helmet boasts a remarkable provenance, having been owned by a commercial diver. It remained in the family for decades before being consigned to us in 2026. This helmet is offered along with a biography of the diver and copies of articles reporting on his more interesting jobs, which will be provided to the winning bidder.
The helmet displays the unmistakable, deep brown patina characteristic of a copper and brass hat exceeding 120 years of age. All five neck ring bolts are intact and function properly. All four of the four factory-matched brails are present, secured by ten vintage wing nuts. The brass hardware on the bonnet remains remarkably complete and original. The air fitting on the back has an original A.J. Morse & Son Inc non-return valve threaded on it. The original exhaust in intact and complete. The port guards are all present. It should be noted that the top port guard is a factory original replacement. All glass is present and free of notable cracks or chips. The faceplate threads on and off correctly. The bonnet and breastplate separate without issue once the five bolts are disengaged. The old neck ring gasket is long gone.
Visually, this helmet is also in excellent unaltered condition. There are no significant dents on the top of the bonnet. Internally, the air vents are intact, as is the exhaust chin button. The breastplate is also in excellent condition for a 120+ year old helmet. The four brails and breastplate neck ring feature serial #876 stamped into them. The bonnet neck ring features #862. While not matching, they are remarkably close and were likely together for most of the 20th Century.
The helmet retains its original A.J. Morse & Son Inc. oval brass ID plate. This is a very early style of ID plate that A.J. Morse used and rarely seen. Other original features, such as the breastplate studs, remain perfectly preserved. This historically significant helmet represents a premier opportunity to acquire a true treasure of American maritime history.
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.
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