Nations Attic 2026 Diving Into History + More
Lot 60:
Description
This helmet was made by the Miller Dunn Company, located in Miami, FL, approximately 1916. Their very first helmet was made in 1915 and was called the Divinhood. They would go on to produce the Divinhood till 1924. Starting in 1916 their helmets would feature an August 1916 patent stamp on the side of the copper body. This helmet actually has two of these stamps, one on both sides!The Divinhood was revolutionary and allowed for easier shallow water work, research, and even underwater photography. The body of the helmet is made of copper with a brass handle, an air-fitting elbow, and a round window frame. The front and back of the helmet feature an band of copper that allowed for specially made lead weights to be attached. There were also round holes for the use of brass hardware to secure the lead from falling off the helmet. A simple yet brilliant design that today is recognized as the father of American shallow water diving helmets. With many of the surviving examples being over 100 years old, few appear on the market for sale.This helmet features a very nice copper body with a slight patina. All the original brass hardware is intact including the carry handle, air fitting, and round window frame. Glass is intact but a little loose. The front window frame does feature serial #158, one of the first couple of hundred ever made!Mainly due to their age, finding original 1916 to 1924 Divinhood Style 1 helmets is a rare opportunity. The Style 1 arguably represents the birth of shallow water diving helmets in the United States. If you are considering collecting shallow water helmets or all four Miller Dunn models made, this example would be a wonderful addition to any collection or museum. Stand not included.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. 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:
