Nation's Attic 2024 Diving Into History

WW2 Miller Dunn # 3 Shallow Water Diving Helmet With USN #

The auction will start in __ days and __ hours

Start price: $1,000

Estimated price: $3,500 - $5,000

Buyer's premium: 20%

Sales Tax: On the lot's price and buyer's premium

During World War 2 the standard US Navy shallow water diving helmet was the Divinhood Style 3. These helmets have a classic appearance and were popular to use even after the war. The Divinhood Style 3 would be the last model Miller Dunn would make, going out of business after WWII. This model is also the pinnacle of shallow water helmet design.

 

This nice original example is complete with some notable details. First, this helmet is an early example with countersunk flat head screws used on the window frames. Not long after production started in 1940, the time-consuming process of countersinking the window guard frames for flat-head screws was replaced by round-head screws. Second, this helmet features a US Government serial number on the right side of the window frame, L427. This number indicates the helmet was put into US Government inventory. The early Miller Dunn #3’s featured the L in front of the serial number, which stood for Lot #.

 

The copper body of the helmet retains much of the original dark red paint applied to it at the factory. This paint would commonly wear off over the decades from use and polish, making one like this quite difficult to find!

 

The helmet does have the original front and back lead weights. The glass on the helmet is all present with no cracks, just some scratches. Typical small working dents are evident upon close inspection of the very top of the helmet. Overall, this is an excellent original complete WW2 helmet with a fantastic patina.

 

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.