The price includes a 4% credit card fee. If you pay by check, money order, or bank wire, the discounted price is $14,395 delivered within the contiguous United States. 
 
Uncover a piece of diving history! This extraordinary Mark V diving helmet, serial #2212 and dated July 28, 1916, is one of the earliest known prototypes produced by A.J. Morse & Son for the US Navy. This remarkable artifact, with its original 8-pointed exhaust wheel and reversed fittings, offers a unique glimpse into the evolution of the iconic Mark V. Whether cherished in its original condition or expertly restored, this helmet is a must-have for serious collectors and diving enthusiasts.
 
An Early Prototype Mark V Diving Helmet
 
In 1916, the US Navy, in collaboration with A.J. Morse & Son and A. Schrader's Son, developed the revolutionary Mark V diving helmet. To guide divers, the Navy published a diving manual featuring a Mark V with serial number 2178. However, this seemingly ordinary helmet soon revealed itself to be a crucial piece of diving history.
 
Collectors meticulously studied the manual and its featured helmet, discovering it to be a unique prototype crafted by A.J. Morse. This early model showcased several distinct features:
 
    A.J. Morse ID Plate: A small oval plate, typical of commercial helmets.
    8-Pointed Exhaust Wheel: A design later phased out.
    Reversed Fittings: Air and communication fittings were positioned opposite their standard placement.
    Simplified Safety Latch: Lacking the cover and cotter pin found on later models.
 
These deviations from the standard Mark V design, evident in the manual's illustration, highlight the iterative process of the helmet's development.
 
A Detailed Examination
 
This helmet, presented in its original "as-found" condition, provides invaluable insights into the Mark V's early evolution:
 
The ID plate is the style used on Mark V helmets made by A.J. Morse & Son. The plate is stamped No. 2212, date 7-28-16. 
 
The serial 2212 is stamped into both neck rings. 
 
Period correct 8 pointed exhaust wheel is present. This part is contemporary and aged to match.  
 
Transceiver recess or communications cup is stamped Patented Dec 20, 1898. There are four screws going through the bonnet to secure a transceiver. This was likely done after leaving the factory. 
 
The brass rectangle right of the faceplate is present but is not taped for two screw holes.  
 
Air & Communications fittings reversed from standard location (same location as shown in 1916 manual). Air fitting installed from the inside of the bonnet. Communications fitting elbow appears to be a later date replacement with a half inch 90 degree copper elbow used and an adaptor on the end.
 
Air fitting has a non-return valve present. Non-return valve is stamped Schrader with a WW2 era USN inspection stamp. Interesting clue as to how long this helmet was actually in use. Elbow is pushed in, preventing the removal of non-return valve. 
 
Spitcock valve has been replaced. The current valve is connected to a series of copper pipes on the inside of the bonnet. 
 
Air vents present inside the bonnet. 
 
Glass is all present and secured with original red lead sealant.  
 
Safety latch present, possible period repair to lever. Currently, the lever is secured with a screw from the inside and rotates. There is a small tear in the copper directly above the safety lever. 
 
Bonnet and breastplate thread together easily. 
 
All 12 wing nuts are present and original to the helmet. 
 
Top of bonnet exhibits numerous working dents, some heavy but none penetrating the copper body.
Historical Significance
 
This helmet, dated July 28, 1916, occupies a crucial position in Mark V history, falling between two other significant examples:
 
    Serial #2204, dated July 12, 1916 – The earliest known dated Mark V.
    Serial #2198, dated August 24, 1916 – A previously discovered early model.
 
This discovery provides invaluable evidence of the rapid development of the Mark V during this critical period.
 
Preservation and Potential Restoration
 
This helmet can be cherished in its current state, a testament to its remarkable history. Alternatively, expert restoration by DESCO/Morse can return it to its original factory configuration. Regardless of the chosen path, this extraordinary artifact promises to inspire generations of diving enthusiasts and historians.
 
The price includes a 4% credit card fee. If you pay by check, money order, or bank wire, the discounted price is $14,395 delivered within the contiguous United States.