Nation's Attic Diving Into History Auction 2025 + More
Lot 87:
Description
We are excited to offer for sale this scarce helmet, one of a mere handful personally crafted by the pioneering diver Al Hanson. This helmet, a testament to Al and his wife Norma’s legendary career, served as a vital piece of equipment in their captivating underwater diving exhibitions for glass-bottom boat tours at Catalina Island, California, spanning from 1947 to 1970. The Hansons’ signature white paint, applied to all their helmets, ensured maximum visibility in the depths, enhancing the audience’s experience. Previously owned by a close diver friend of the Hanson’s, this particular helmet was meticulously restored for display in a private museum, and we are privileged to showcase this unique piece from such an iconic diving duo. A fascinating video of Danger Is My Business featuring Al Hanson and family plus his helmets can be seen in this video on YouTube by copying and pasting this link: https://youtu.be/p-kw9xp36j4?si=UGO–ZstCN_YnhuL
Technically, the helmet boasts an air control valve and an emergency dump valve in the bonnet, a USN Mark V exhaust valve, and a telephone housing, alongside a central tie-off eye on the breastplate. Its most distinctive feature, however, is the oversized fixed view ports, specifically designed to capture the divers’ faces for photographs. This design element is vividly illustrated in the accompanying video clip of Al Hanson performing an extraordinary underwater feat. This footage, likely the only existing record of a deep-sea diver executing a free ascent after cutting themselves out of their suit, was broadcast nationwide on Colonel John D. Craig’s "Danger Is My Business." Television show.
The Hansons were true luminaries of California diving, with Al contributing his expertise to Disney’s "20,000 Leagues Under the Sea." Norma, using a similar helmet, achieved a record-breaking dive to 220 feet in 1950. This exceptional helmet is accompanied by a Kerotest bail-out bottle from the museum exhibit, stamped 10-42 and meticulously refurbished in white. Further enriching this collection is a first edition copy of the Hansons’ comprehensive 700-page book, "More Than Nine Lives, " numbered 356 of a limited 450 print run, and personally inscribed by Norma to a respected diving author. Finally, a copy of Historical Diver Magazine, featuring Al Hanson on the cover and a detailed pictorial of their career, completes this extraordinary offering.
The display stand in the photos is not included. The option to purchase the stand at a discounted price will be available after the auction. 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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