Scarce Original WW2 Private Purchase Parsons Jacket - Size 38

An original Second World War U.S. Army M-41 Parsons jacket which is a rare private purchase example and is a size 38.

The M-41 field jacket was introduced in the late 1930s and became one of the most recognisable items of American military clothing produced during the Second World War. Designed as a lightweight outer garment, it was worn by U.S. Army personnel during the early war years before being superseded by the M-43 field jacket. It is quite possible that the jacket was purchased after the M-43 had replaced the M-41, with the original owner preferring the earlier style to the newer uniform. The jacket retains laundry numbers to the interior, offering a further detail consistent with its use and history, although the identity of the original wearer is unknown.

Constructed from a robust cotton twill fabric rather than the lighter cotton poplin normally used for issue examples which makes the jacket harder wearing. It retains the familiar M-41 design, with its characteristic flapped front pockets which are a feature of the early 'Parsons' jacket and not seen on the more common later production examples. The interior is lined in the standard khaki-coloured wool fabric, whilst the front retains its original 'Talon' branded zip which is in good working order. There is evidence of where rank stripes have previously been fitted to the sleeves and then removed. 

The jacket will suit a 38" chest and when laid flat it measures -

Chest - 22 1/2"
Inside arm - 15 3/4"
Outside arm - 23 1/2"
Shoulders - 18 1/2"
Length at rear - 24 1/2"

The jacket displays well and is totally wearable with various signs of wear and use. A section of replacement material has been added to the bottom hem, whilst a large patch of the same material is present to the rear of the right sleeve. A square repair is also found at the left elbow. These repairs give the jacket considerable character and suggest that it was worn and maintained rather than discarded. The jacket is in well-worn vintage condition with various repairs and signs of use as described. Please take time to study the pictures carefully before purchasing and bear in mind that it is a vintage, pre-worn item which may have other small flaws commensurate with age. 

A particularly interesting and unusual M-41 Parsons jacket. The private purchase cotton twill construction, original Talon zip, khaki wool lining and interior laundry numbers make this a distinctive example of American field clothing from the Second World War.

This is a vintage item which is 'sold as seen'