Nations Attic 2026 Diving Into History + More
Lot 140:
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 both World Wars, was, among others, handled by the Boston-based company A.J. Morse & Son Inc., and later renamed Morse Diving Equipment. This renowned manufacturer, founded in 1837, became a key supplier to the U.S. Navy, and its 1916 design for the Mark V cemented its place as a legend in the world of diving equipment.This Mark V helmet features a lead ID plate showing it was made during April 1944. During this time, Morse switched to lead ID plates rather than brass to help conserve the war-critical material. During WW2 Morse would apply a lot to the ID plate rather than the serial number. In this case the lot number is 158.The helmet’s serial number stamped on both neck rings, and all four brails is 5108. This is a full serial number matching example! The helmet features all the correct hardware, including spitcock valve, BTE exhaust valve, port guards, glass, comms cup, comms elbow, air fitting elbow, four brails, twelve correct wing nuts, four copper brail shims, original safety latch with brass chain and cotter pin, internal exhaust chin button, WW2 reproducer with US Navy inspection stamp, and vents. An original wing nut T wrench is also included. This helmet retains nearly all of its original tinning on the copper body, which was applied at the Morse factory. The bonnet does exhibit minor working dents and some loss of tinning consistent with a working helmet. The back of the breastplate even features wear to the tinning where the leather weight belt rubbed. Out of the four makers of the Mark V during World War 2, Morse helmets are the second most difficult to find. This April 1944 helmet in full #s matching condition with its original finish and components is a special surviving example worthy of any collection! 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.
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