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
Absolutely beautiful diving helmet made by the A.J. Morse & Son Inc Company circa 1914. This helmet has the look of one that was ordered from the famed Boston helmet manufacturer and then only lightly used in fresh water. Regardless of how or where it was used, the next owner will be in charge of keeping this impressive helmet preserved in its current state.
In the 1904 A.J. Morse & Son catalog this model of helmet is declared The Most Popular Helmet In Use. Indeed, this classic design is in many cases synonymous with the popular image of a diving helmet, especially before the USN Mark V was invented.
This 3 Light (3 windows) 12 bolt example retains almost all of its tinning. The tinning is the gray surface over the copper body of the helmet. This was applied to prevent saltwater corrosion and would wear off from use and polishing. The brass hardware has a wonderful patina, giving this helmet a very clean factory original appearance.
The helmets serial number is 2029. This number is present on both neck rings and all four brails. This serial number helps date the helmet to the 1914 time period. The oval A.J. Morse & Son brass identification plate is present. This plate is a replacement that was recently made and installed by A.J. Morse & Son, now owned by DESCO.
The helmet retains the original serial numbered brails, twelve correct style wing nuts, window guards, glass, faceplate, exhaust, safety latch, air elbow fitting, internal air vents, exhaust button. In addition, a rare A.J. Morse & Son Inc stamped non-return valve is still attached to the air fitting! There is one small old repair on the back of the bonnet behind the left window. Finding a 107+ year old diving helmet in this complete serial numbers matching state is a rare treat!
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. 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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