448 S. Pattie Ave
Wichita, KS 67211
United States
Nation’s Attic Incorporated is located in Wichita, KS. As a full time business we offer expert factory correct restoration & repair services for antique slot machines made from the 1880’s to 1950. Only dealing in authentic examples of antique slot machines, we are one of the few remaining full time ...Read more
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Dec 4, 2021
The US Navy Mark V is arguably the most iconic helmet design ever made. Its style and history have made it one of the most popular helmets among collectors worldwide. The model was made for the US Navy from 1916 till the mid-1980s. Production of the helmet reached peaks during late World War 1 and during World War 2. From 1916 and into the 21st Century , Morse would produce the Mark V for the military and civilian divers.
The helmet was made by one of the famed and iconic manufacturers of the 19th and 20th Centuries, the Morse Diving Equipment Company. Located in Boston, MA, this company would start making diving helmets and related equipment in 1837. Throughout the 19th Century, they would improve upon diving helmet design and become a supplier to the US Navy. The first Mark V was made by Morse in 1916. During World War 2 Morse would continue to make the Mark V for the US Government. Today the Mark V is considered by many to be the most iconic diving helmet ever made.
This helmet was made on March 10th, 1943. At this time Morse used an oval brass ID plate. The plate had the date and number on it. Unlike the other 3 manufacturers of the Mark V during World War 2, Morse placed a lot number on the ID plate, in this case 912. Somewhat uncommon is the placement of this lot number on other locations of the helmet. In this case 912 is stamped on both neck rings and all four brails.
The helmets serial number is 4590, which is also on both the neck rings and all four brails. With two numbers on all six locations, this is a double serial numbered matching helmet!
On the inside of the helmet bonnet the original air vents and exhaust chin button are present. There is also a WWII reproducer with a US Navy inspection stamp on it. Original wire from reproducer to communications fitting is present as well. Externally the helmet is complete with all 12 wing nuts, 4 brails, 4 copper brail shims, window guards, glass, window guard screws, air fitting, exhaust, spitcock valve, dumbbell safety latch, and communications fitting cap. Of the 12 wing nuts, there is 5 flanged 7 standards. Very old rope tied to the rings on the breastplate will come with the helmet. Numerous small working dents on the top of the bonnet are present but none are severe.
Overall this helmet has a fantastic used and original appearance. Evidence of the old leather shoulder harness on the copper breastplate are obvious, adding to the helmets alure. Of note, Morse Mark V helmets from World War 2 are the second most difficult to find, behind the elusive Miller Dunn examples. Mark V helmets are arguably the most desirable and collected helmet in the entire world. With the full serial number matching status, incredible original appearance and completeness, this example would be a special addition to any collection or as a first helmet.
All helmets sold & auctioned by Nation’s Attic Inc. will come with a certificate of authenticity (COA). This COA will have a serial # on it that will match the # on a tamperproof holographic decal placed on the inside of the helmet. This level of security and long term assurance of the helmets authenticity is un-matched in the industry and very important to us.
The display stand shown in the photos is not included. The option to purchase one after the auction will be provided. All helmets will be shipped in two double boxed boxes via FedEx. Worldwide shipping available. A shipping quote prior to the auction can be provided by emailing your postal code.
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.
Shipping: Shipping fees listed with each lot pertain to domestic shipping only (contiguous or lower 48). International bidders are subject to higher shipping fees. Please inquire about shipping to a particular country before the start of the auction. Purchased items will be shipped on a first paid, first shipped basis and may take up to twenty (20) business days for said shipment to leave our (Nations Attic, Inc.) business. For time sensitive shipments, we (Nations Attic, Inc.) will expedite payment processing and shipping for a nominal fee. Items paid for by personal check are subject to a ten (10) business day hold for funds clearance. All domestic mainland items are shipped via FedEx ground or via USPS unless otherwise specified or requested by the customer. International shipments are shipped via USPS International or FedEx.
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