Nations Attic 2026 Diving Into History + More
Lot 133:
Description
Used by the U.S. Navy from 1916 to the mid-1980s, the Mark V diving helmet is an icon of diving history and a favorite among collectors. Production of the helmet, which peaked during World War 2, was handled after WW2 only by Morse Diving Equipment and the Diving Equipment & Supply Company. Finding examples made post-WW2 is difficult due to the very limited numbers made due to surplus WW2 examples in government inventories. This specific helmet was made by Diving Equipment & Supply Co (DESCO) in August of 1951, during the Korean War. While the records for this helmet are long gone, it is a safe bet that it was possibly ordered for use during the war. This Mark V helmet features the classic DESCO brass oval ID. The helmet’s serial number, 4028 is clearly stamped on the ID plate. DESCO would also stamp the serial number on both inside neck rings. The matching number is on both halves. The bonnet also has a second number on it, possibly a separate inventory number applied outside of DESCO.The helmet features most of its original hardware, including exhaust valve, port guards, glass, comms cup, comms elbow, air fitting elbow, four brails, eleven wing nuts, four copper brail shims, original safety latch with brass chain and cotter pin, internal exhaust chin button, original Navy reproducer, and vents. The helmet is missing the spitcock valve, neck ring gasket, and one wing nut, all of which can be acquired from DESCO. This helmet has, without a doubt, seen plenty of underwater work. While not abused, all of the factory tinning has worn off. The top of the bonnet does exhibit a couple of working dents. As noted above, finding a Mark V made after 1945 is difficult, especially during the Korean War. This helmet could be left as is, or it could be polished out to a brilliant shine. Regardless, it is a fantastic straight-numbers-matching example!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.The display stand shown in the photos is not included. The option to purchase one after the auction will be provided. 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 in a 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. 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.
Share this lot:
