The price includes a 4% credit card fee. If you pay by check, money order, or bank wire, the discounted price is $6,995 delivered within the contiguous United States.  
 
Here is a rare opportunity to own a very desirable 19th-century American diving helmet. 
 
This helmet was made by the Alfred Hale Company in Boston, MA, during the 1800's. The helmet features a fantastic patina and is a seldom-seen neck feed model. The air elbow fitting was located on the back of the breastplate, with the air channel located within the neck ring, blowing the air out below the diver's chin. This rather curious configuration was preferred by some divers, with only a precious few surviving today.
 
In addition to the helmet's incredible patina, the castellation seams are clearly visible on the top of the bonnet and the shoulders of the breastplate. This helmet pre-dates the common use of a separate ID plate. Alfred Hale Co Boston is clearly stamped into the front lower edge of the breastplate.
 
Unlike many helmets of this vintage, this one has not been modified. Typical working dents are present on the top of the bonnet, all of which only add to this helmet's visual appeal and authenticity in our opinion.
 
The helmet is missing its threaded faceplate, four brails and twelve wing nuts. Luckily, these pieces can be found or newly made. In many case, Hale parts were extremely similar or the same as AJ Morse parts of the same time period.
 
Alfred Hale helmets rarely enter the market. While this example is missing some replaceable parts, we are offering it at a fraction of what a complete example would sell for.
 
All helmets sold by Nations Attic Inc. will have a certificate of authenticity (COA). This COA will have a serial # on it that will match the # on a tamperproof holographic decal placed on the inside of the helmet. This level of security and long-term assurance of the helmet’s authenticity is unmatched in the industry and very important to us.
 
The display stand shown in the photos is not included. The option to purchase one at a discounted price is available. The helmet will be shipped in two double thick specially prepared boxes via FedEx. Worldwide shipping is available. A shipping quote prior to the auction can be provided by emailing your postal code.
 
The price includes a 4% credit card fee. If you pay by check, money order, or bank wire, the discounted price is $6,995 delivered within the contiguous United States.