This is a classic piece of American diving history is represented in this A.J. Morse & Son Inc. diving helmet. Referred to as The Most Popular Helmet In Use in the 1917 A.J. Morse & Son (Morse) catalog. This 3 light 12 bolt (3 windows and 12 bolts on the breastplate) diving helmet also was made at a very important time in Morse company history, which we will expand upon below.

When this helmet was ordered in 1916 it has the optional telephone communications hardware installed at an extra price. At this time communications via a telephone line was still quite new to diving. While many diving helmets were retrofitted with telephone hardware, we believe this hardware was installed when the helmet was made. The primary clue is the patent date on the communications cup of December 20th, 1898. In 1917 this helmet had a catalog price of $100 plus the extra cost of telephone hardware.

The helmets serial number is 2249. This number can be found on both the bonnet and breastplate neck rings plus all four brails. It is important to note that Morse was producing the very first Mark V diving helmets for the US Navy when this helmet was made. The earliest known Mark V serial number is 2198 from August 1916, sold by Nations Attic in 2020. This information helps make the educated assumption the helmet was produced in 1916.

This helmet does retain much of its original appearance and configuration. It has a nice patina on a majority of the copper body and brass hardware. All of the glass, window guards, air and communications fittings, exhaust valve and dumbbell safety latch and are present. Twelve wing nuts are intact as well as the 4 serial numbered original brails. The top of the bonnet features typical small working dents, none severe. Inside the bonnet the air vents are present. The exhaust valve button is present.

This helmets visual appeal by itself makes it instant desirable. The close serial number associated with the first Morse Mark V helmet, classic configuration with telephone hardware included only add to this helmets uniqueness. Without a doubt, it is a true piece of American diving history!

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.