1944 US Navy Morse Mark V Diving Helmet

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Nation's Attic Diving Into History 2025 + Mor...

By Nation's Attic Inc.

Nov 1, 2025

Set Reminder 2025-11-01 11:00:00 2025-11-01 11:00:00 America/New_York Bidsquare Bidsquare : Nation's Attic Diving Into History 2025 + More https://www.bidsquare.com/auctions/nations-attic/nations-attic-diving-into-history-2025-more-20857
Nation's Attic's annual Diving Into History auction is filled with some fantastic, rare, authentic diving helmets from around the world, plus related memorabilia. We also have a collection of rare golf balls, US silver coins, plus more. Nation's Attic Inc. helmets@nationsattic.com

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• Lot Description

  Used by the U.S. Navy from 1916 to the mid-1980s, the Mark V diving helmet is an icon of diving history and a favorite among collectors. Production of the helmet, which peaked during both World Wars, was, among others, handled by the Boston-based company A.J. Morse & Son Inc., and later renamed Morse Diving Equipment. This renowned manufacturer, founded in 1837, became a key supplier to the U.S. Navy, and its 1916 design for the Mark V cemented its place as a legend in the world of diving equipment.

  
  

  This Mark V helmet features a lead ID plate showing it was made during November 1944. During this time, Morse switched to lead ID plates rather than brass to help conserve the war-critical material. During WW2 Morse would apply a lot to the ID plate rather than the serial number. In this case the lot number is 532.

  The helmet's serial number stamp on the breastplate neck ring is 5482. The bonnet neck ring features serial number 5432. All four of the brails are stamped 5432. The helmet features all the correct hardware, including spitcock valve, exhaust valve, port guards, glass, comms cup, comms elbow with cap, air fitting elbow with Morse non-return valve and cap, four brails and twelve correct wing nuts, a modified safety latch with brass chain and cotter pin, internal exhaust chin button, reproducer, and vents.

  
  

  It does appear that the helmet was likely restored and brought to complete condition by Morse many years ago. The brails, wing nuts, and bonnet appear to be contemporary made at the time the work was done decades ago.This complete US Navy Mark V helmet is ready to display and enjoy!

  
  

  The display stand in the photos is not included. The option to purchase the stand at a discounted price will be available after the auction. 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.

  
  

  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 Info

  • 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 DHL Express or FedEx Express. USPS is no longer used for international shipments due to issues with tracking packages. Insurance: All items are insured for the full purchase amount less carrier shipping charges, or the maximum amount allowed by the carrier and/or country of destination. Insurance is included in the specified shipping amount listed in the shipping section of the final invoice pricing. All invoices are sent with insurance already factored into the shipping charge. The customer has the right to waive any insurance amount by providing written consent that the customer will not hold Nations Attic, Inc. or its shipping carriers responsible for damaged and/or lost shipments due to uninsured/under insured packages. In some instances, we (Nations Attic, Inc.) reserve the right to only ship certain items if insurance is purchased for the full amount of the item(s) being shipped. International buyers are responsible for all duties and taxes. If shipment is rejected, buyer is responsible for all return shipping costs or disposal fees incurred.

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