A masterpiece symbolic of the early days of the Vietnam War: the U.S. Army 1st Model Jungle Fatigue Jacket.
However, the details of this particular jacket clearly differ from the 1st Model typically found on the market. While the standard 1st Model is rare in itself, this piece is an exceptionally intriguing specimen that makes you want to examine it more closely—it suggests the possibility that it is an early production run or a test sample.
The Jungle Fatigue Jacket—officially known as the “COAT, MAN’S, COMBAT, TROPICAL”—is a tropical combat uniform developed to withstand the hot and humid conditions of Southeast Asia.The early model appeared around 1963–64 and is characterized by lightweight OG-107-series cotton poplin, exposed pocket buttons, epaulets, and a waist adjuster. In later models, the specifications were simplified and modified to prevent snagging in the jungle.
This item faithfully reproduces the details characteristic of the 1st Model, including exposed buttons, a large chest pocket positioned at an angle, lower pockets, epaulets, and a rear waist adjuster.
However, the most significant feature is the jacket’s internal construction.
Compared to typical mass-produced 1st Models, the placement and number of internal buttons differ, and there is also a button fastener detail at the neckline that appears to be designed to secure some type of equipment. While standard 1st Models also feature structures unique to early versions, such as an inner flap, this item exhibits specifications that differ from typical examples.
Furthermore, the label configuration differs from standard items.
No size label is visible, and only two tags remain.Stitch marks, suggesting a tag was once removed, are visible on the back of the neck. The instruction label still bears the inscription “COAT, MAN’S, COMBAT, TROPICAL,” making this garment a fascinating piece of reference material for the study of early jungle fatigues.
Based on these specifications, it is possible that this is a test sample from before the mass-production specifications were fully finalized, or a production piece from the very earliest stages of the 1st Model. However, based solely on the information available at this time, it cannot be definitively determined to be a test sample. This is a piece that we hope you will appreciate simply for the fact that it is “clearly different from standard items.”
Compared to later models, the 1st Model was produced and used for a shorter period, making it a rare collector’s item with few surviving examples. Given that this piece features an internal construction that differs from standard specifications, I believe it will appeal more to collectors who are tracking the evolution of Jungle Fatigue specifications than to those who simply want “a 1st Model.”
Condition: Used. While there is some fading and scuffing from wear and age, the OG color still retains sufficient depth and has a wonderful, vintage-like character. Please carefully review the photos provided for details on each part.
Specifications: 1st Model / Exposed buttons / Epaulets / Waist adjuster / Unique internal button layout
Condition: Pre-owned. Shows fading and scuffs due to age and wear. This piece features internal details that differ from the standard 1st Model.
*Regarding the unique specifications of this item, it is possible that it is a test sample or an extremely early model; however, we cannot confirm this definitively as no conclusive documentation has been found.
As this is a used item, returns are not accepted. Please understand.
Estimated size: MEDIUM-REGULAR.
Dimensions (flat measurement)
: Shoulder width: 47 cm;
Chest width: 61 cm;
Sleeve length: 60 cm; Total
length: 78 cm
*Consignment item
