This helmet was made by one of the famed and iconic manufacturers of the 19th and 20th Centuries, the A. Schrader’s Son Company. Located in Brooklyn, New York, this company would start making diving helmets and related equipment in the 1840s. Throughout the 19th Century, they would improve upon diving helmet design and become a supplier to the US Navy. During the early 20th Century their helmets would utilize the latest techniques in design and safety. In addition to supplying the US Navy, Schrader helmets and equipment were used by commercial divers around the world. Schrader would go on to be a major supplier of the famed Mark V from 1916 till after World War II. Today, helmets made by this company are prized among collectors for their iconic styles and place in diving history.

This special helmet was made at the height of the Great Depression in the United States – 1930 to 1935. The helmet has a copper body with brass hardware, all of which is present. The helmet features the original A. Schrader’s Son Inc. brass ID plate with serial # stamped clearly into it. This serial # and style of the helmet are what allows us to put a general date of manufacturer on it. During the Great Depression, many men had to brave dangerous jobs and diving was one in demand. This helmet is a classic example of a one that would be used on countless jobs around the country to help build its infrastructure.

The standard configuration of a helmet during this time had 3 lights or windows. For an additional charge, Schrader would add the 4th light (top one) to the helmet, which this one has. It also has a communications cup, allowing the diver to communicate with the top. This was also an option that cost extra and found on this example. The cup located on the upper front and communications fitting on the back of the bonnet (top) is the quick way to tell this helmet was outfitted with this option.

The helmet is in very nice condition and perfect for display in the home or office. The copper body and brass hardware were polished out years ago, leaving a bright clean appearance showing off all the aspects of the piece. The helmet is complete with all its glass, 12 wing nuts, four brails, exhaust valve, air fitting, communications fitting, dumbbell safety latch, window guards, neck ring gasket and internal air vents. Period repairs on the air fitting and dumbbell safety latch are visible.

If only a helmet like this could talk – the stories it could tell! The helmet was obviously well taken care of by its owner(s) over the decades. Its extra cost features make it all the more special. With the subtitle signs of use years ago and its polished clean appearance, it is one that will impress even the non-collector. Unlike military helmets (Mark V), commercial helmets like this were made in very limited numbers, usually made when an order was placed. For these reasons, finding a nice example like this a special treat.

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 international shipping quote prior to the auction can be provided by emailing your postal code.