By far the most requested and popular diving helmet in the United States is the US Navy Mark V. There were only four companies that made the famed model starting in 1916. One of those original companies was Diving Equipment & Salvage Co (DESCO), and the firm that produced this particular helmet. Unlike the vast majority of Mark V helmets made, this specific one is a rarely seen mixed gas model able to go to extreme depths and feared by many divers.

What many people do not know is that starting in the 1930s the need for extremely deep dives necessitated the need for a modified Mark V - the mixed gas or helium Mark V model. These helmets were only needed in extreme situations by highly trained divers. With a large brass canister on the back containing a CO2 absorbent and a helium - oxygen mixture, divers could work at depths past the typical 100' to 150' limit of a standard Mark V helmet. This helmet did, however, earn the nickname "Widow Maker". While safe, if anything went wrong or there was a small leak - things went very bad very quickly for the diver.

Compared to the standard Mark V - only a small number of these mixed gas Mark V helmets were ever made. Typically, only the US Government ordered this helmet due to their expense and the need for divers to go to extreme depths. Jobs such as submarine salvage or even secret operations are when these were employed.

This helmet was made on July 7th 1944 by the Diving Equipment and Salvage Company in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, aka DESCO. DESCO would place the serial # on the brass ID plate, which is 1473. The serial # was also placed on the outside and inside of both two neck rings. The number was also stamped onto the brass canister. All 6 locations on this helmet the serial # is matching. In addition, the helmet does have a US Navy inspection stamp on the breastplate neck ring. This stamp is proof the helmet was inspected and put into US Navy inventory during World War 2!

The helmet is in very good condition and has the look of a helmet that has been in the thick of danger and to the deepest parts of the ocean. The copper body and brass hardware have a nice patina. There are a few very minor working dents, but nothing objectionable, especially for a helmet that was used. The helmet is complete with all its glass, 12 wing nuts, 4 brails, exhaust valve, brass Co2 absorbent tank, air & gas fittings, neck ring gasket, internal air vents, dumbbell safety latch, communications cup, communication elbow cap, and heater elbow cap. The only small details we noted as missing is a safety latch cotter pin & chain, and four copper brail shims. Both of these can easily be purchased from DESCO today.

You may be asking, why are the window guards yellow? The likely reason, the Navy commonly would paint a color on a helmet as an easy way to identify a specific diver, in this case, “yellow” diver. Circles and diamond patterns have been observed on standard Mark V’s, but with the added features on the top of the bonnet, likely painting the window guards was the easiest and most visual way to differentiate this helmet from others. The guards are easily removed, and the paint can be taken off by the next owner if so desired.

With this helmet’s massive configuration, it makes for an impressive display piece. With the added fittings and large brass canister on the back, the helmet comes in at over 100 pounds! Luckily the brass canister is removable, and the bonnet and breastplate separate, making transportation much easier. Once the helmet is assembled, its imposing features, great history, and overall look make it an instant focal point in any collection or as a standalone piece in a home or office setting. These helmets over the years have also been good investments due to their rarity and overall impressive visual appeal.

The display stand shown in the photos is not included. The option to purchase one after the auction will be provided.

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. Payment via bank wire for customers outside the USA is required. A shipping quote prior to the auction can be provided by emailing your postal code.