This helmet was made by arguably the most famous American helmet maker, the A.J. Morse & Son Company. Located in Boston, Massachusetts, this company would start making diving helmets and related equipment in the 1830s. Morse would design some of the most iconic helmets ever conceived. In addition to helmets, the company would make all other related diving equipment as well as fire fighting gear. Morse helmets are known worldwide by divers. Morse would be one of the original makers of the US Navy Mark V. They would produce this helmet from 1916 till the mid-1980Â’s for the US Navy. The company is still in business today.

This wonderful 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.J. Morse & Son Inc. brass ID plate. Morse would put the helmets serial # on both bonnet and breastplate neck rings and the four brails. This example features the matching number in all six locations. This serial # allows us to put a general date of manufacturer on it.

The standard configuration for this model of a helmet during this time had 3 lights or windows. Most of the models Morse made actually utilized oval windows on the side, with the exception of the Mark V and Continental. Of note, at some point in the helmets past the exhaust valve was replaced and the communications fittings and cup removed. Many older divers still working in the 1930s preferred to use rope singles rather than try and talk with their tender topside via a crude telephone set-up.

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, spitcock valve, dumbbell safety latch, window guards, neck ring gasket and internal air vents. Upon close inspection, the 8 pointed exhaust four brails and front window knobs may also be contemporary replacements. These components were prone to damage or loss and it is not unusual to have these parts replacement during the life of a helmet for functional or display purposes.

This helmet exhibits a classic American look and beauty. Hints of the original tinning finish are evident The polished copper body and polished brass hardware components provide for a very impressive appearance. Evidence of vintage repairs and minor working dents only add to the helmets allure of use during one of the countries most challenging times.

All helmets sold & auctioned by NationÂ’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.