Nation's Attic 2024 Diving Into History
Lot 171:
Arguably the most desirable and collected diving helmet in the world, the United States Navy Mark V. This beautiful example was made in August 1943 by the A. Schraders Son Company, Division Of Scovill Mfg. Co. Schrader was one of the original two companies to manufacture the Mark V for the US Navy starting in 1916. Schrader would land numerous contracts during World War 2 to produce the Mark V.
All USN Mark V diving helmets made for the US Government had the copper body coated in a tinning. This tinning helped prevent saltwater corrosion to the copper. From use, age and polishing this time wears off in many cases. This example still retains much of the original tinning as can be easily seen in the photos. While there is no doubt this helmet was used, it was also taken well care of and likely used in freshwater environments.
During 1943 Schrader would typically place the serial number on the ID plate, communications cup, and on the bottom side of all four brails. This helmet features the number 567B on the ID plate. The communication cup features number 532. There are no numbers on the underside of the brails. The communications cup does feature a US Navy inspection stamp on it. This stamp proves the helmet was inspected and put into service with the US Navy.
The helmet has all four brails, 12 wing nuts, window guards, glass, air & communications fittings, spitcock, BTE exhaust valve, and dumbbell safety latch and chain. Inside the bonnet, the internal air vents are all present, as well as the exhaust button. The old neck ring gasket is long gone. The dumbbell latch has been slightly modified. In addition, this helmet has an extra communications fitting installed on the upper back of the bonnet. It is likely the helmet was being used by a commercial diver after WWII, and this telephone fitting was preferable.
This helmet does have an amazing original visual appearance. The bonnet is free of any working dents, which is amazing. If you have been looking for a really nice looking World War II dated Mark V and are not concerned about smaller details, than this would be an excellent choice!
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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