Direct from behind the Iron Curtain is this seldom seen style of Soviet diving helmet called a 3 bolt / 12 bolt model. Before the fall of the Soviet Union these helmets scarcely ever entered the collector market and many collectors were unaware of their history and unique characteristics. Today collectors and divers enjoy the classic style, rugged construction and abundance of spare parts and gear for Russian helmets.

This special helmet was made at the height of the Cold War in the Soviet Union – 1981. The helmet has a copper body with brass hardware, all of which is present. The helmet features the original brass ID plate with details clearly stamped into it. This ID and style of the helmet are what allows us to put a date of manufacturer on it, 1981. The ID plate also allows us to determine the helmet was made at Factory 21 in Leningrad by the Ministry of River Fleet.

A vast majority of helmets made in Russian during the mid to late 20th Century are a 3 bolt configuration. This means the top and bottom halves are secured via three bolts. The suit also attached to this 3 bolt pattern as well. At Factory 21 they produced a variation featuring 3 bolts at the neck ring and 12 bolts on the breastplate. This was done to allow for a suit with a 12 bolt pattern to be secured to the breastplate. These helmets were made for non-military use in Russian and were made in limited numbers. Today they are a very interesting design both visually and functionally.

The helmet is in excellent condition and perfect for display in the home or office. The copper body and brass hardware are very clean. The helmet is complete with all its glass, 15 wing nuts, 3 brails, exhaust valve, air fitting, internal speaker, neck ring gasket and internal air vent. It should be noted that this helmet has been used in the last few years and worked great.

With this helmets unique configuration, it makes for an impressive display piece. In addition to display (after being certified by a dive shop) is dive ready as well. We do have in this auction a couple different 3 bolt pattern suits. In addition, DESCO has recently made available neck dam inserts that allow for diving these helmets without the use of a full suit. Regardless, if you plan to add this helmet to your collector or use it, it is a beautiful example from Russian!

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.