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.
|
LOT 42:
1915 Miller Dunn Divinhood Style 1 Miami, FL Diving Helmet
more...
|
|
|
Sold for: $5,250
Price including buyer’s premium:
$
6,300
Start price:
$
2,200
Estimate :
$4,500 - $9,000
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
|
Item Overview
Description:
This rare helmet is an early example of the Divinhood, an innovative diving helmet produced by the Miller Dunn Company of Miami, Florida. Made around 1916, this helmet is a foundational piece in the history of American shallow-water diving and is the direct ancestor of all subsequent shallow-water helmets.
The Miller Dunn Company began producing the Divinhood in 1915 and continued until 1924. The Divinhood revolutionized shallow-water work, making it easier for divers to perform tasks like research and underwater photography. Its simple, yet brilliant, design is still admired today. The body is made of copper, with a brass handle, air-fitting elbow, and a circular window frame. An extra copper band on the front and back allowed for lead weights to be attached and secured with brass hardware.
This wonderful original example features an unmistakable original green, brown and dark red patina that only comes from use and 100+ years. During the first year of production, Miller Dunn did not stamp these helmets. We have not been able to identify a stamp, but the surface patina may be preventing its appearance. The copper body is free of any notable dents. The glass is intact with no cracks. The air fitting and brass handle are in good condition. The four lead weights feature a shallow company stamp on each. There is no hardware securing them to the helmet.
Overall, this is one of the nicest original Miller Dunn Divinhood Style 1 helmets we have ever handled. Its overall condition and visual appeal make it a special example!
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 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.
