Not only is this a legendary United States Navy Mark V diving helmet, it is a rarely found helium example, aka The Widow Maker! This variation of the standard Mark V helmet was designed for extreme deep diving missions. The large brass tank on the back contained an absorbent for the Co2 the diver produced. This absorbent, if exposed to water, would turn into a dangerous gas that was potentially lethal, hence the ominous nick name Navy divers gave this helmet.

The photos show just how incredibly nice this example is. The helmet was made by Diving Equipment & Supply company in February 1971. The customer was the United State Navy, who sent this helmet to the newly constructed USS Beaufort ATS 2. The USS Beaufort was a rescue and salvage Edenton-Class ship. She was stationed out of Pearl Harbor and Japan. The ship was struck from the US Navy list in 1996 and sold to South Korea.

Vitally important to Mark V helmets are the serial numbers, especially a helium example. This DESCO is indeed serial numbers matching on both inside neck rings and the brass ID plate. The helmet is serial #99. The helmets certificate of authenticity will include the USS Beaufort provenance.

The helmet does have all four brails, 12 wing nuts, window guards, original glass, air, heat, gas and communications fittings, DESCO non-return valve with cap, communications and heat fitting caps, unique helium helmet exhaust valve, dumbbell safety latch with original chain and cotter pin, and all brass hardware screws. Inside the bonnet, the internal air vents are all present as well as the exhaust valve chin button. The original communications speaker or still intact and appears to be in like new condition. Rear Co2 absorbant tank with fresh gaskets is also in excellent condition. Lastly, the original neck ring gasket is present.

All Mark V helmets made for the US Navy were tinned. This gray or silver colored material coated the copper body of the helmet preventing saltwater corrosion. This helmet features close to 100% tinning. The helmet does appear to have been re-tinned. There are a few minor cosmetic flaws the tinning conceals. The area directly above the dumbbell safety latch, a small section below the breastplate neck ring above the ID plate and lastly the communications cup has a scuff on a side edge. All of these imperfections are minimal and visible in our detailed photos.

Helium Mark V helmets weigh approximately 101 pounds. Developed back in the 1930s, this model still manages to impress everyone! Having such a helmet in your collection or on display by itself is an impressive sight. In addition, the United States Navy and USS Beaufort provenance really propels this example as a special historical piece of US Navy and diving history!

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 Priority Mail. Worldwide shipping available. A shipping quote prior to the auction can be provided by emailing your postal code.