Original 1950s USAF Type A-1B Shirt - Size Medium

An original USAF Type A-1B Shirt Coat as worn by the United States Air Force during the early 1950s.

This pattern of shirt coat was introduced during the post Second World War period and saw use throughout the Korean War era. It is made from blue grey coloured wool and features a five button front, a lay down collar and four large patch pockets to the front – two to the chest and two to the lower skirt. The cuffs are adjustable with a choice of two buttons (one missing) and the overall cut is typical of early Cold War U.S. military garments with a practical, functional design. The original USAF device is printed to the front right shoulder.

Inside the neck the original black and orange woven label is still present and clearly legible. It reads ‘Shirt, Men’s Coat Style, Wool, Type A-1B’ and is marked as a size Medium. The specification number MIL-S-6282C is detailed along with the stock number 8405-269-0277. The contract number AF-33-(602)-5318 is also present and the manufacturer is named as Albert Turner & Co. Inc. The label is marked ‘Dry Clean Only’ and ‘100% Wool’ along with ‘U.S. Property’.

The shirt will suit someone of around a 40" chest size depending on desired fit and when laid flat measures –

Chest - 22"
Inside arm - 18 1/2"
Outside arm - 24"
Length at back - 29"
Shoulders - 17 1/"

The shirt is in good condition for its age and appears to have seen light service use. There are some small holes and some staining which is illustrated in the pictures. Overall it displays well and is still very wearable but please take time to study the pictures before purchasing and bear in mind that this is a pre-owned vintage item which may have small issues commensurate with age.

A nice original Korean War era USAF shirt with a good, clear label. 

This is a vintage item which is ‘sold as seen’