Nation's Attic 2024 Diving Into History
Lot 184:
This white US Navy Mark V divers amplifier was part of the diving equipment of famed helmet diving duo Al and Norma Hanson from their glass bottom boat diving exhibitions at Avalon, Catalina Island, California in the middle of the last century. The husband and wife team of the Hansons painted all of their diving exhibition equipment white, including their diving helmets, which were custom designed by Al. This amplifier was used by the surface tenders aboard their diving barge platform DAVEY JONES, to talk with the Hansons while they were diving and showing marine life to guests who viewed them through the bottom of a glass bottom boat. The Hansons were a big tourist attraction and appeared on post cards and tourist materials. On May 14, 1950 Norma made a 220 foot helmet dive believed to be a ladies world record at the time. She would later be honored by induction into the Women Divers Hall of Fame. Al was involved in numerous diving activities including diving in Disney’s 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea. Their extensive career exploits were published in their 700+ page book More Than Nine Lives and they appear on You Tube in various videos. Their amplifier was made by Audio Equipment Company in November of 1951. The ID plate does feature a ink US Navy inspection stamp. This is a piece of diving history over 70 years old and connected to the Hansons amazing career. It is in good condition but has not been tested, but accounting for the overall weight, the internal components are present. It weighs approximately 65 pounds. Please review the photos for additional condition specifics.
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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