Nation's Attic Diving Into History Auction 2025 + More
Lot 66:
Description
The US Navy Mark V was first made in 1916 by the A.J. Morse & Son Co. Beginning in 1917, the A. Schrader’s Son Co. started production. Only a handful of examples exist from 1916 and 1917. By 1918, orders by the US Government for victory in World War 1 and later reconstruction started to significantly increase the number of Mark V helmets made. Today in the 21st Century and 108 years afterwards, examples of the 1917 Schrader Mark Vs are extremely rare and desirable!
This Mark V features a Schrader ID plate with the manufactured date of July 2nd, 1917. Even more impressive, the serial number is 35, the 35th Mark V ever made by Schrader! Undoubtedly, it was made and used to aid America in its World War 1 efforts.
The bonnet neck ring is stamped 56, and the breastplate is 31. These numbers do not correspond to the serial number on the ID plate, which is not uncommon for early WW1 Schrader Mark V helmets. The underside of the brails features the number 56, a strong indication they are original to the helmet and matching to the bonnet!
It is likely the helmet was in US Navy inventory during World War 1 and quite possibly during World War 2 as well. The exhaust valve is circa World War 2. The helmets hardware is all intact, including the brails, 12 wing nuts, window guards, window glass, internal air vents, chin button, and spitcock valve. The dumbbell safety latch is present, but the cotter pin and chain are missing. Luckily, these are easy to obtain.
The bonnet does feature the typical working dents. There are a few deeper dents, but none penetrate the copper. Dents such as these should be expected from a helmet of this vintage. This helmet was likely professionally polished over twenty years ago. The result is a very clean helmet that has developed a slight patina to the copper and brass, giving it a rich authentic look rarely found on a World War 1 helmet!
Finding one of the first Mark V helmets ever made is a dream of many collectors. This is a unique opportunity to own the 35th Schrader Mark V ever made in impressive original condition. It is truly a unique and special opportunity.
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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