Original WW1 1918 Dated US Army Mackinaw Coat - Size 42

Original WW1 1918 Dated US Army Mackinaw Coat - Size 42

Code: 54119

SOLD

A stunning original 1918 pattern US Army Mackinaw coat in fantastic unissued condition.

This pattern of jacket was introduced in July 1918 with the Specification number No. 1343 and was very different from its wool predecessor. This pattern was made in a khaki tan coloured duck cotton canvas and features a fantastic mackinaw cloth checked lining. The front features a double breasted closure which fastens with metal US Army buttons. One of the most notable attributes of these jackets is the large shawl collar which is faced with olive drab coloured blanket wool. The underside features a throat latch as illustrated in picture 7. The coat comes complete with its matching waist belt which fastens with a metal frame buckle. 

Flapped pockets are located to the skirt and the original label is present inside the right hand one. It is still bright and legible and bears the maker's name of 'Alfred Benjamin-Washington Uniform Co Inc' along with the size of 42. The contract date of October 11th 1918 is also present although the last digit has been partly obscure by a stamp.

The interior of the coat is lined with a fantastic mackinaw cloth which is a blue and black checked pattern. This makes for a fantastic contrast against the drab exterior and may possibly be unique to this manufacturer. There is also a hanging loop to the neck.

The coat is designed to fit a 42" chest but should fit up to a modern size 44" chest, depending on desired fit. When laid flat the coat measures - 

Chest - 24 1/2"
Inside arm - 19"
Outside arm - 26"
Shoulders - 18 1/2"
Length - 34 1/2"

The coat is in stunning, unissued condition as can be seen in the pictures. It still has the remnants of the paper cutters tags which can be seen in pictures 5 and 8. This is really quite incredible for a coat which is over 100 years old! It does not appear to have ever been worn and displays extremely well but do take time to study the pictures and bear in mind that this is a vintage, pre-owned item which may have small flaws commensurate with age. 

A truly stunning piece of vintage military outerwear which would be very hard to upgrade!