Rare Miller Dunn Divinhood Style 2 Burley Metal Works Diving Helmet

Rare Miller Dunn Divinhood Style 2 Burley Metal Works Diving Helmet

The Divinhood Style 2 is regarded by many as the most desirable shallow water diving helmet ever produced. This unique helmet was made by the Miller Dunn Company, located in Miami, Florida. Miller Dunn started out in 1915 with the Divinhood, a simple helmet that became popular with civilian and military divers. In 1925, Miller Dunn introduced the much-improved Divinhood Style 2, which would become the US Navy standard shallow water helmet.

The Style 2 Divinhood utilized two angled glass windows on the front protected by brass bars. The large angled windows provided a great field of view but also created a distorted vision when looking straight ahead. Regardless, the model would be made for well over 10 years and proved popular in all sorts of underwater professions and activities.

This beautiful example was likely made in late 1926 or 1927 time period. Early Style 2 helmets featured a slightly narrower shoulder flange, which is present on this helmet. The ID plate style dates it to 1926 or later, indicating that it was likely made during a short timeframe when this model was evolving.

Another notable detail is a serial number stamped on the brass window frame, B15. The B indicates the helmet was made by a subcontractor of Miller Dunn, the Burley Metal Parts Company. It’s unknown how many “Burley Miller Dunn 2” helmets were made, but this one is likely the 15th.

This helmet was professionally polished around twenty years ago. The copper body is in wonderful condition with a nearly flawless body. The brass window frame, bolts, air elbow and handle are all original and in very nice, polished condition. Four Miller Dunn stamped weights are present. The glass is in excellent condition.

Unlike the Style 1 and Style 3 Divinhood, the Style 2 was made between World Wars. This resulted in only limited US government orders, and now, in the 21st century, very few surviving examples. The helmet's unique design also makes it a highly desirable model that rarely comes to the market. Having the opportunity to own one in this condition is a rare occurrence.

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.