The price includes a 4% credit card fee. If you pay by check, money order, or bank wire, the discounted price is $4,950 delivered within the contiguous United States.
 
In 1909, at the tender age of fifteen, Bert Cutting's life was forever altered by a tragic bout of typhoid fever that robbed him of his sight. In a world that often limited individuals with disabilities, Bert defied expectations. He learned to care for himself, provide for his family, and even embark on a career that seemed impossible.
 
During the depths of the Great Depression, inspiration struck Bert while listening to his son read a Dick Tracy comic strip. The idea of diving for mussels in the Little Wabash River sparked a new path. His initial success led to a variety of underwater tasks, including raising sunken boats and cars. Notably, Bert refused to charge for his services when retrieving bodies.
 
Bert's most remarkable feat came in 1952 when a barge carrying 155 new cars sank in the Ohio River. Despite multiple failed attempts by other salvage companies, Bert confidently declared he could accomplish the task. After 100 days of arduous work, he successfully recovered 146 vehicles, earning him recognition from the legendary Robert Ripley.
 
The diving helmet used by Bert is a testament to his ingenuity and the era's diving technology. Hand-formed copper and soldered together, the helmet features a classic deep-sea design without ports or windows. Its unique patina and small working dents reveal a history of countless dives.
 
Bert used three diving helmets throughout his life, and this particular example has been authenticated by his son and confirmed by author Dorthy Barstad. Barstad wrote a fantastic article in Historical Diver #52, Summer 2007 about Mr. Cutting. Accompanying the helmet is a letter from its previous owner, further verifying its provenance. The Historical Diver #52 from Summer 2007 will also be included. 
 
A copy of the Historical Diver article can be found on the Diving Heritage site by following this link; https://www.divingheritage.com/bertcutting.htm 
 
Bert Cutting's extraordinary story is a testament to human resilience, determination, and the power of overcoming adversity. His journey from blindness to becoming a skilled diver is a remarkable example of the human spirit.
 
The display stand shown in the photos is available at a discounted price with the purchase of this helmet.
 
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 price includes a 4% credit card fee. If you pay by check, money order, or bank wire, the discounted price is $4,950 delivered within the contiguous United States.