Nation's Attic 2024 Diving Into History
Lot 127:
This is the famed and highly coveted United States Navy Mark V diving helmet. This helmet was made by Diving Equipment & Salvage Company on June 6th, 1944 – also known as D-Day. It is unnecessary to go into the significance of that day in this description, however, having an authentic piece of US Navy equipment made on that day is very special and unique.
As shown in the photos, this Mark V helmet looks almost like it just left the Milwaukee factory on that fateful day! All Mark V helmets when ordered by the US Navy had the copper body coated in a tinning to help prevent corrosion from saltwater. In many cases this tinning has worn off from use and polishing, but not this example!
Vitally important to Mark V helmets are the serial numbers, especially ones made on D-Day. This DESCO has serial numbers matching on both inside neck rings and the brass ID plate. DESCO would place the numbers on the inside as opposed to Morse and Schrader examples. An additional very important detail is a US Navy inspection stamp present on the neck ring. This stamp is proof the helmet was inspected and accepted into US Navy inventory on that historic day!
The helmet does have all four brails, 12 wing nuts, window guards, glass with original red lead sealant, air and communications fittings, Morse non-return valve with cap, communications fitting cap, spitcock, exhaust valve, and dumbbell safety latch. Inside the bonnet, the internal air vents are all present as well as the exhaust valve chin button. The original neck ring gasket is present.
Another notable feature visible on the front of the breastplate and top of the bonnet is a red painted diamond. This was applied to helmets to differentiate one diver from another, in this case “red diver”. Few helmets from WW2 still retain this original paint sometimes applied to a helmet!
Overall, the helmet is an incredibly desirable example in amazing condition made on one of the most important days in US history! It would be extremely difficult to ever find another DESCO Mark V in this incredible original condition with all the original features this example has.
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. The display stand shown in the photos is not included. The option to purchase one after the auction will be provided.
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. Payment via bank wire for customers outside the USA is required. A shipping quote prior to the auction can be provided by emailing your postal code. International bidders are advised that some countries do not allow the importation of knives. Nations Attic is not responsible for shipping charges going or coming back if your countries customs denies delivery. Rejected items can be consigned into a future sale as there are no refunds.
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