The John Bannister Collection - D-Day and Militaria
Lot 2216a:
Description
This impressive display piece is a fine bench-made replica of the iconic U.S. Navy Mark IV diving helmet, modeled after the classic designs by the Morse Diving Equipment Co. of Boston. Crafted to capture the rugged aesthetic of 1940s maritime gear, the helmet features a copper-finished body with brass-toned fittings, including a four-light viewport configuration and a hinged front port with a wing-nut latch. While it includes a manufacturer’s plate stamped with a serial number and a 1940 date for historical accuracy in appearance, the 17 lb weight confirms it is a high-quality decorative reproduction rather than a service-used artifact. It showcases an attractive aged patina with intentional oxidation and verdigris to enhance its vintage nautical charm. The piece is in excellent decorative condition with minor surface scuffs and authentic-looking wear to the hardware. H 16″, W 14″, D 16″. See photos.
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