Fantastic original United States Navy Mark V diving helmet! This helmet in late 2020 was discovered in Eastern Europe, where it has been in storage since shortly after World War 2. The previous owner indicated it was part of old Russian diving equipment. This helmet was likely sent to Russian as part of the Lean Lease program. This program set-up the swift supply of much-needed equipment to the United States allies. The peak of these shipments to Russia was in late 1943 and 1944. After the war, it was documented that Russia received $977,000 in salvage & diving equipment (1945 dollars) from the US. This helmet, dated October 10th, 1943, was undoubtedly part of the kit sent to Russian and Europe to help the allies win the war!

As shown in the photos, this helmet has the undeniable look of an original that has never been polished or abused! Made by Diving Equipment & Salvage Company (DESCO), this helmet retains hints of the copper shells' original tinning. The DESCO ID plate clearly shows the stamped serial (650) number and date (10-10-43). In past auctions, we have handled earlier 1943 DESCO helmets referred to as small volume helmet due to the bonnet's slightly smaller size. This helmet is one of the first standard size bonnets made by DESCO!

Vitally crucial to Mark V helmets is the serial numbers. This DESCO is indeed serial numbers matching on both inside neck rings and the brass ID plate. DESCO would place the numbers on the inside as opposed to Morse and Schrader examples. An additional essential detail, a US Navy inspection stamp is present on the neck ring! This stamp is proof the helmet was inspected and accepted into US Navy inventory! Once in government inventory, the helmet was then likely shipped out as part of the Lend-Lease equipment.

The helmet does have all four brails, 12 wing nuts, window guards, glass, air, and communications fittings, spitcock, and exhaust valves. Inside the bonnet, the internal air vents are all present and the chin button for the exhaust valve. The dumbbell safety latch chain and cotter pin are present, but the chain is broken. A replacement can be purchased from DESCO. The helmet also has a cap on the communication elbow with a reducer secured to it. Communications wire has been cut off but likely still present inside the elbow. Please refer to photos for more accurate details. Overall this is a magnificent original helmet with an intriguing history documented in the certificate of authenticity sent along with the helmet.

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

All items will be shipped with a signature required upon delivery and full insurance either via FedEx or the USPS. Worldwide shipping available. A shipping quote prior to the auction can be provided by emailing your postal code.