Lot 51:
1944 US Navy Mark V Diving Helmet w/ USN Inspection Stamp
Description
The U.S. Navy Mark V is arguably the most iconic diving helmet ever produced. Its unmistakable design and long history of service have made it one of the most desirable helmets among collectors worldwide. Introduced for the U.S. Navy in 1916, the Mark V remained in service for decades, with production continuing through the latter part of the 20th century. Even after the Navy transitioned to the Mark 12, the traditional Mark V continued to be manufactured for commercial and recreational diving.
This exceptional example was manufactured by DESCO of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, one of the legendary names in American diving equipment. DESCO began producing diving helmets and related equipment in the late 1930s and became a U.S. Navy supplier during World War II. The company remains in business today, continuing a remarkable tradition of American diving equipment manufacture.
According to its identification plate, this helmet was manufactured on August 4, 1944, at the height of World War II. Most impressive is its remarkably well-preserved original condition. U.S. Navy Mark V helmets were required to have their copper bodies completely tinned to help protect them against the corrosive effects of saltwater. Much of that original gray tinning remains intact on this helmet, giving it the distinctive appearance of a beautifully preserved wartime Navy example.
The bonnet and breastplate retain matching serial numbers corresponding with the identification plate, with DESCO stamping the serial number on both interior neck rings. The outer neck ring of the breastplate also bears a U.S. Navy inspection stamp, documenting that the helmet passed Navy inspection and was accepted into inventory. The spun-copper body remains exceptionally clean, showing only very minor flaws to the top of the bonnet.
The helmet is also remarkably complete, retaining its four original brails, twelve wing nuts, spitcock, exhaust valve and chin button, dumbbell safety latch with chain and cotter pin, neck-ring gasket, glass with red caulking, and internal air vents.
The extraordinary preservation of this helmet approaches what collectors often describe as near-new-old-stock condition. To find a Mark V manufactured, inspected, and accepted into U.S. Navy inventory during World War II with its matching numbers, inspection markings, original tinning, and components preserved to this degree is exceptional. This is an outstanding example of the classic wartime DESCO Mark V and a helmet worthy of an advanced collection.
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 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. A shipping quote prior to the auction can be provided by emailing your postal code.
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 its authenticity. The display stand shown in the photos is not included. The option to purchase one after the auction will be provided.
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