Original USMC P47 HBT Trousers - French Converted

An original pair of United States Marine Corps P47 HBT Fatigue trousers which have been converted by the French Army in the 1950s. 

These trousers started life as a standard issue pair of P47 USMC HBT Trousers. Made from the green coloured herringbone twill material used throughout the 1940s by the US Military for all of its work clothing; the trousers have ended up in French hands and been converted, possibly in country, around the time of the Indo-China war. The trousers have all the features of the P47 trousers including frog mouth pockets, belt loops and a button fly. The twin patch pockets usually found to the rear have been removed and there is clear evidence of where they were previously positioned. 

The trousers have had cargo pockets added to the outside of each leg. They are made from a similar US HBT material and feature different stitching to the rest of the trousers. The stitching is quite rough which may suggest that the conversion was carried out 'in-country'. The press studs are another telltale sign. They are all marked 'RG' to the rear which was the marking used by 'A. Raymond' who was the most prolific French manufacturer of press studs throughout the mid-Century period. His press studs can be found on many French and German items from this period. 

The trousers will suit around a 29" waist and when laid flat they measure - 

Waist - 28 1/2"
Rise - 12"
Rear rise - 16"
Inside leg - 29"
Outside leg - 39 1/2"
Cuff - 9"

The trousers are in worn condition but are still very wearable. They have a great look to them and plenty of character with fades and staining etc. There are no serious flaws but they are a vintage, pre-worn item which may have small issues commensurate with age. Please take time to study the pictures before purchasing. 

A fantastic pair of converted trousers with loads of character.