Arguably the most desirable and collected diving helmet in the world, the United States Navy Mark V. This notable example was made in September 1942 by the A. Schraders Son Company, Division Of Scovill Mfg. Co. Schrader was one of the original two companies to manufacture the Mark V for the US Navy starting in 1916. Schrader would land numerous contracts during World War 2 to produce the Mark V. This example is relatively early WWII Mark V considering production had not increased dramatically until 1943 and 1944.

As shown in the photos, this helmet features a nice patina to the copper body and brass hardware. There is no doubt by the helmets visual appearance that it was used! The bonnet and breastplate thread together with ease. Typical working dents are present on the top of the bonnet, but none are severe or deep.

Vitally crucial to Mark V helmets is the serial numbers. This Schrader is not serial numbers matching, but the numbers are remarkably close. Schrader would place the serial number on the ID plate, on the bottom side of all four brails, and the communications cups bottom edge during World War 2. When multiple helmets were used in one location, such as a ship, undoubtedly, they would get mixed up. This helmet features number 553 on the breastplate and number 560 on the bonnet. Specifically, the ID number featured on the ID plate is 553A. Three of the four brails have 553A on their underside. The fourth brail has 560 on it, matching the bonnet! It is possible both helmets were damaged in some way, and the Navy then combined the parts to make a complete helmet.

This helmet does feature a US Navy inspection stamp. The inspector at the Schrader factory would place the symbol on the top edge of the communication cup. This helmet features the stamp in that spot and is proof the helmet was inspected and accepted into US Navy inventory! It also leads credence to the theory that the helmet was being used in a location with multiple others, where it could have been mixed-up or combined.

The helmet has all four brails, 12 wing nuts, window guards, glass, air, communications fittings, spitcock, and exhaust valves. Inside the bonnet, the internal air vents are all present, as well as the exhaust button. The dumbbell safety latch chain and cotter pin are not present. A replacement can be purchased from Schrader. Also, the bastard stud is the same length as the others. The helmet also has a non-return valve. The communications elbow also has a cap that was placed on helmets when not in use. On the breastplate neck ring, the name ANN is stamped onto it. We are not sure what this indicates or if someone decided to give this helmet a name. Overall this is a great World War II US Navy inventory diving 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.