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-1980s for the US Navy. The company would change ownership in the late 1930s, changing the name to Morse Diving Equipment, which is who made this helmet. The company is still in business today.

This helmet was made during the 1940s and probably during the start of World War 2. The helmet has a copper body with brass hardware, all of which is present. The helmet features a Morse Diving Equipment 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 6 locations. This serial # allows us to put a general date of manufacturer on it.

While a commercial-style diving helmet isn’t rare in itself – one made during World War 2 is. At the start and all during World War 2 Morse was at full production capacity making the Mark V and related equipment for the war effort. This helmet was either order directly before the war started or it was made for a very special customer. Regardless, the helmet is a unique configuration used by commercial divers in the abalone and sponge industries. It’s quite possible the helmet was also used for reconstruction efforts after WWII as well. The helmet does have a threaded plug on the front of the breastplate for optional air supply. The breastplate also has the inside shoulders built up, customization requested by the diver. Some of these characteristics are reminiscent of helmets used by divers in the Pacific Northwest of the US.

The helmet is in unmistakable original condition. The copper body retains much of its original tinning, which would help prevent saltwater corrosion. Almost all helmets made by Morse would have a tinning applied to the copper body. Over time this tinning would wear off from use or polishing. The helmet is complete with all its glass, 12 wing nuts, four brails, exhaust valve, air fitting, non-return valve, comms fitting, window guards, internal air vents, safety pin, and very old communications speaker inside. The helmet exhibits only a few minor working dents. When the breastplate modification was done the old ID plate was removed and an updated brass plate was installed. There is the telltale sign of use on the breastplate where rope and a weight belt have rubbed off some of the tinning. These subtle signs of use in our opinion really make this helmet come alive!

If you enjoy antiques or diving helmets in original untouched condition – this helmet will certainly “speak” to you. The look and patina this helmet has is something that can not be replicated and is difficult to find in the 21st Century. The helmets full serial #s matching status make this helmet into one anyone would be proud to own.

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.