|
WWII M1939 US Army Jacket -
When the United States entered World War Two much of the military was unprepared for combat.
The unforms and equipment employed was very antiquated, most of it dated back to World War one.
The US Army dress uniform was an exception. It had seen some improvement when compared to
its much cruder descendant. Both types of uniforms were made of
wool. However, the one used
in WWII was more refined.
The uniform covered on this page is an example of an M1939 jacket worn by American GI's during
WWII. The coat was constructed from wool with brass buttons and four pockets. This style was
discontinued towards the end of 1942.
|
The American tunics held a variety of patches
and insignia in the left and right arms. Also in
the breast area.
The triangular patch located above the top right pocket is the Ruptured Duck, also known as
the "lame duck". It was given to individuals who completed their military service honorably.
The rule was that it had to be sewn to the uniform shortly after leaving the service. This
action renders the uniform inactive.
The stripes shown on the photograph on the right were issued for overseas service. Each
mark represents six months abroad. The patch on the left is for the 70th Infantry.
American uniforms were clearly marked with tags
which contained various information
regarding the manufacturing of the piece. These tags were found inside the front lower pocket,
inside the interior pocket or inside the sleeve. In many cases the tag has been removed
or it is no longer legible due to normal wear.
|
|
This page is a recognition and identification guide for WWII US military uniforms.
Multiple detailed photos of a specific sample are provided. Descriptions point out
clearly defined points that should be noted.
One of the most commonly asked questions is "How much is my WWII US uniform worth?".
A price guide is included here to address this question. The value of the uniforms is
reviewed over a period of several years. A trend can be observed. The present worth
of the American military uniforms in the collector's market is illustrated.
This service is provided free of charge to the visitor/enthusiast courtesy of
MilitaryItems.com,
a company dedicated to the preservation of military history and to providing quality
military antiques and collectibles to museums, institutions and the general public.
|
|
Unlike earlier American uniforms, the front buttons
were sewn. Of metal construction.
Golden color. Bearing the US Army eagle in the face of the button.
|
This US uniform is currently being reproduced.
It is becoming more difficult to be able to tell the fake ones from the real ones because
the quality of the reproductions is improving. The collector must become familiarized with
the construction style and materials employed in the manufacturing of this headgear.
Attention to the details is critical in order to be able to determine the authenticity of
the collectible.
If you have an interest is seeing other WWII American military uniforms, you can do so by
going to our WWII US Military uniforms
identification guide. Where we cover Army, Navy, Army Air Force and other organizations.
|
