One of the great American diving manufacturers since 1849 is A. Schrader or commonly known as Schrader. Their helmets over the centuries are some of the finest ever made. This example from the 1920s is one of those with an interesting story to tell.

At first glance, it is hard not to notice the large protrusion on the divers left side. That interesting modification will be addressed later. First, what we have here is a classic 1920s era 3 light (3 windows) 12 bolt (12 wing nuts) diving helmet. This hardhat was discovered in Florida, where it had been with a family for multiple generations. The helmet features the original brass A. Schraders Son ID plate with serial number 1007.

When this helmet was ordered, no communications equipment was installed. In the 19th century, most helmets did not have this equipment, but by the 1920s, it was becoming more common. Many older divers relied only on rope signals, not wanting to pay for or use early telephone technology. As time progressed, a lot of helmets were sent back to the original manufacturer for servicing and communication upgrades.

In what appears to be cost saving measure, a communications cup was installed on this helmet, but in place of the divers left side window! Apparently, the owner of this helmet was content with only two windows and the communications speaker pointing into his left ear. Regardless of the reason, the result is a very unique looking helmet! While we enjoy the stories a helmet can tell us, this well built attachment can easily be removed and a piece of glass and window guard installed.

Without a doubt this helmet was used on many jobs during its working life. Various working dents are visible on the top peak of the helmet as well as around some of the fittings. There is one stud and and two wing nuts missing. The faceplate glass is cracked, but still solid. The neck ring gasket is missing. The good people at Schrader can have the missing parts made for this helmet if so desired. A non-return valve is present, as well as an air hose fitting. The old brass cotter pin and chain is acting as the safety pin on the back. The original exhaust, brails, and internal air vents are intact. The helmet likely received a polishing decades ago, resulting in a nice consistent patina to the copper body.

This is the second Schrader helmet we have seen with a communication cup installed in a window port. The other example had the communications cup installed on a 4th window on top, only minimally sacrificing the divers vision. This helmet undoubtedly has some wonderful adventures associated with it, which are unfortunately lost to history. Despite that, this helmet has the look of one that could tell countless stories from a hard yet interesting time in American 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 Nations Attic exclusive display stand is not included. A stand will be made available to the high bidder at a reduced sale price after the auction.

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.