The price includes a credit card fee. If you pay by check, money order, or bank wire, the discounted price is $9,995 delivered within the contiguous United States.
The Mark V diving helmet stands as an undisputed icon of naval history, a masterwork of engineering produced by only four elite companies. Among these, the World War II specimens from A. Schrader’s Son represent the absolute pinnacle of craftsmanship and wartime output. This particular helmet, manufactured in August 1943, was made at the very height of the United States’ involvement in the war. As the photos reveal, this helmet is an impressive survivor. The immediate focal point is the gorgeous, deep original patina on the copper body, perfectly complemented by the lightly polished brass hardware. This striking contrast of metals gives the helmet a commanding, museum-quality visual presence.
The 1943 brass ID plate is crisp and legible, displaying the month, year, and serial number 519B. The matching serial number 519B is stamped across the inside of all four brails and the exterior communications cup on the bonnet. Intriguingly, the inside of the bonnet neck ring is stamped 529—an anomaly that likely points to a production error born from the frantic, high-pressure pace of the 1943 war effort. Further solidifying its provenance, the communications cup bears a clear US Navy inspection stamp, definitive proof that this helmet was vetted and placed into USN inventory during the heat of the conflict.
The "character" of this piece goes far beyond its serial numbers. Both neck rings feature the name "Frances" hand-engraved into the brass. In addition, both the bonnet and breastplate are marked with the number "3" in red paint. These authentic field details strongly suggest that these two halves have remained a matched pair since they first left the shipyard. It was common practice for Navy divers to use paint to differentiate their gear.
Remarkably, this helmet retains all its correct hardware, including the four copper brail shims, which are almost universally lost over time. Peer inside the bonnet and you’ll find the original air vents, the exhaust chin button, and even remnants of the vintage communications wire. Externally, the helmet is complete in every sense: all 12 wing nuts, four serial-matched brails, window guards, glass, air fitting, BTE exhaust valve, spitcock valve, and the dumbbell safety latch are all present. The bonnet features several "working dents"—true battle scars of its service life—none of which are deep or severe. With its original leather neck ring gasket still intact, the bonnet and breastplate seal together with satisfying ease. This is a helmet with immense charm and undeniable soul; between its confirmed WWII Navy inventory status, its personalized history, and that spectacular patina, it is a truly world-class piece of maritime history.
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.
The price includes credit card fee. If you pay by check, money order, or bank wire, the discounted price is $9,995 delivered within the contiguous United States.