The Mark V diving helmet, an iconic piece of naval history, was manufactured by only four companies throughout its production. Among them, Morse Diving Equipment Co. Inc is arguably the most iconic American helmet manufacturer. Their World War 2 helmets are actually difficult to find as they received made far fewer than Schrader and DESCO.
This particular helmet, manufactured in December 1944, was made at the United States’ height of involvement in World War 2. As the photos show, this helmet is an impressive example in more than complete original condition. The focal point of this helmet is its original factory-applied tinning.
All Mark V’s made for the US Navy had this tinning applied over the copper body to protect against saltwater corrosion. In many cases, this tinning is long gone due to use or aggressive polishing.
The 1944 lead ID plate with the month, year, and lot number 859 stamped on it is easily readable. Many Morse Diving Equipment Mark V’s from this time that were used had their soft lead ID plates badly marked up or worn down to the point of making them difficult to read.
The matching serial number 5852 is present on all four brails and both the bonnet and breastplate neck rings – a full serial #s matching helmet! Morse actually put a “lot number” on their ID plates, which can be confusing.
As mentioned above, the helmet features the original tinning that can be considered new old stock. It’s rare to find WW2 Mark V with essentially the same look as it had when it was shipped out from the Boston factory in 1944!
All the brass hardware is exposed, as it should be, and has a consistent level of patina. All of the correct hardware is present on this helmet. It also features a pre-war AJ Morse & Son Inc non-return valve with cap, a communications fitting cap stamped Morse Boston, and four copper brail shims, which are generally always missing. On the inside of the helmet bonnet, air vents are present, as well as the exhaust chin button. An old piece of tape is also on the inside of the bonnet with a past commercial divers name on it. It’s quite possible this diver purchased the helmet as surplus after World War 2 and simply never used it. Having a little bit of provenance like this is always a valuable extra.
Externally, the helmet is complete with all 12 wing nuts, four serial numbered brails, window guards, glass with original red lead calking, air fitting, BTE exhaust valve, spitcock valve, dumbbell safety latch, and communications fitting. The bonnet is nearly flawless with only the most minor of surface imperfections from light handling. All of the original glass is present and in good condition. The original leather neck ring gasket is intact, allowing the bonnet and breastplate to seal together with ease.
If you have been looking for a classic, 100%+ complete, World War 2 Mark V helmet in investment level condition, this one is it!
All helmets sold by Nations Attic Inc. will have 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 helmet’s authenticity is unmatched in the industry and very important to us.
The display stand shown in the photos is not included. The option to purchase one at a discounted price is available. The helmet will be shipped in a specially prepared box via FedEx. Worldwide shipping is available.