The price includes credit card fee. If you pay by check, money order, or bank wire, the discounted price is $12,750 delivered within the contiguous United States.
The Mark V diving helmet, an iconic piece of naval history, was manufactured by only four companies throughout its production. Among them, A. Schrader’s Son stood out as the primary supplier to the U.S. Navy during World War II. While their wartime output was substantial, helmets produced just before the attack on Pearl Harbor are exceptionally rare.
This particular helmet, manufactured in May 1941, predates the Japanese attack by mere months. It would have been a crucial component of the Navy's diving equipment as the world plunged into war. The presence of a U.S. Navy inspection stamp further confirms its role in the early, desperate years of the conflict.
As the photos show, this helmet is an impressive example in beautiful, complete condition. As a matter of fact, this helmet was dove just a few years ago!
The focal point of this helmet is the original brass ID plate. This is a seldom-seen 1941 ID plate with the month, year, and serial number stamped on it. It’s possible that Schrader restarted their serial number sequence in 1941, with this one being number 15 of the year. The same number can also be found on the underside of all four brass brails.
Of the two other 1941 Schrader helmets we have handled over the past 20 years, we noted the presence of a four-digit serial number. This stamp is possibly a USN inventory number. This helmet does have a faint number on the breastplate neck ring, 2464. Ironically, #13 that we handled over a decade ago was 2462.
Stamped above this inventory number and on both neck rings is the same SALLY. This bit of personalization on a US Navy helmet is unusual and reminds us of the WW2 aircraft that were named and featured nose art. SALLY the Mark V helmet certainly does make this already rare example truly unique!
The helmet features an immaculate copper body with a rich tinning. All the brass hardware is in a lightly polished state, complementing the tinned body. Absolutely all of the correct hardware is present on this helmet, including the commonly missing four copper brail shims and complete dumbbell safety latch system.
On the inside of the helmet bonnet, air vents are present, as well as modern communication wire. The communications elbow does have a correct single-pin hook-up installed. Communications wiring clamps are all intact and in excellent condition. The exhaust chin button is present and functions correctly.
Externally, the helmet is complete with all 12 wing nuts, four copper brail shims, four serial numbered brails, window guards, freshly sealed glass, air fitting, BTE exhaust valve, spitcock valve, dumbbell safety latch, and communications fitting with hook-up. Newer neck ring and faceplate gaskets are present. There are no notable dents or dings on this helmet, making it a real gem!
If you have been looking for a historic helmet in beautiful condition and essentially dive-ready (testing required before using), this incredible helmet should be strongly considered. Not only is it a strong investment-level helmet, but it’s also a functional piece of US Navy and American 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 two double thick specially prepared boxes 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 $12,750 delivered within the contiguous United States.