Our annual auction for 2025 is fill with authentic antique and vintage diving helmets and related memorabilia from the 19th and 20th Century. Iconic copper and brass diving helmets made by AJ Morse, A. Schrader's Son, DESCO, Miller Dunn, Siebe Gorman, Craftsweld and more are featured. Vintage fiberglass diving helmets from Joe Savoie, Bob Ratclife, Kirby Morgan and more also also being sold.
The second part of the auction features a lifetime collection of antique & vintage golf balls. These balls date to the late 1800s into the 1960s.
The third part of the sale features a selection of silver US coins.
Rounding out the sale is a small selection of rare antiques.
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LOT 27:
Early Bob Ratclife Serial #12 Rat Hat Diving Helmet
more...
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Sold for: $5,250
Price including buyer’s premium:
$
6,300
Start price:
$
5,000
Estimate :
$9,000 - $14,000
Buyer's Premium: 20%
More details
sales tax: 7.5%
On the lot's price and buyer's premium
Users from foreign countries may be exempted from tax payments, according to the relevant tax regulations
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Item Overview
Description:
One of the most iconic and historic diving helmets from the late 20th Century is the Rat Hat. Designed by Bob Ratcliffe, this fiberglass helmet was prized by divers worldwide. Oceaneering, the company that utilized the Rat Hat was very protective of these helmets and would take all measures necessary to prevent loss of a single helmet.
This specific example is in restored condition with a professionally applied red paint job. This example is also a rarely seen early configuration without a carry handle incorporated into it. Of even greater significance, this helmet is serial #12, one of the lowest serial number we have ever handled. This chromed hardware is all in excellent condition with only the most minor signs of age. The neck damn ring may not be the original, but fits nicely. Internal hardware is intact as shown in the photos. This helmet will also come with an original Rat Hat decal and business card. Such an iconic helmet in this condition is worthy of any collection or museum.
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.
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. International bidders are advised that some countries do not allow the importation of knives. Nations Attic is not responsible for shipping charges going or coming back if your countries customs denies delivery. Rejected items can be consigned into a future sale as there are no refunds.
