First, a little primer on the Riddell TAK 29 helmet. This helmet represents the transition from the suspension helmet to a cell padded helmet, and incorporates both systems. It was often referred to as "the water helmet"(see also Riddell Microfit) . It's a suspension type of helmet that has water-filled compartments in the lower rear/neck area instead of the entire suspension components the older Riddell TK models had. "Actually, an anti- freeze solvent was used, to prevent a helmet from freezing atop a player's head." The water in the cell padding of this helmet is still intact, after all these years. Being that it's contained within an air tight cell, condensation simply re-cycles the water, thus, no evaporation.
Pictured here is an original 02/76 date coded Seattle Seahawks Riddell TAK 29 suspension helmet. A very unique and rare example of Seahawks game worn history because of the fact that very few players on the team wore the TAK 29, and that this example is so well preserved. It has been confirmed, by Historic Helmets, Inc. , as original equipment manufactured and assembled by Riddell, for the Seahawks. While the decals, player ID, and paint authenticate it directly from the team. The face mask was designed and manufactured by Dungard, the DG 125 model.
The history of this particular helmet is vague, however, the speculation is that it was built by Riddell, then, issued to the team where they painted and applied decals. It might have been used for the 1976 season, possibly by player #75, which is marked inside. Steve Niehaus, originally assigned #75 before switching to #71, or, DE Dave Tipton [ref1] are possible candidates? After it's first season use, the helmet at some point was probably sent back to Riddell for reconditioning, then, back to the team and possibly used for the 1977 pre-season, or, regular season by player's; Bob Simpson, or, Alden Roche respectively. Both players also assigned #75 that year. Note, the rivets and how they are affixed over the decal. Evidence that the suspension system was installed while the decals were adhered to the helmet and to further indicate that the helmet was reconditioned to possibly replace a bad suspension, or, put a new size in it.
The helmet was finally retired, by the team, and given as a gift to a sales representative who assisted the team with their charter flights back in the mid to late seventies.