Original WW2 American USAAF A2 Leather Flying Jacket by 'Roughwear'

A fantastic original United States Army Air Force A2 Leather Flying Jacket made by 'Rough Wear' during the Second World War. 

The A2 flying jacket has to be one of the single most iconic jackets of all time. Synonymous with American pilots and aircrew of the Second World War, these jackets were a must have for any flyer and also made their way into the hands of US Airborne officers. This jacket is immediately recognisable today and is undoubtedly a design classic. 

This example was made by 'Rough Wear' who were one of the most prolific manufacturer's of A2's during WW2. It is made from a brown coloured veg tanned horsehide leather and features highly desirable contrasting russet coloured knitted cuffs and waistband. The jacket retains its original brass 'Talon' branded zipper which functions well and two patch pockets are located to the front. These have flaps which both fasten with press studs. Inside one of the pockets is the original white size tag which states the size as 38. The collar can also be fastened down to the jacket with press studs as illustrated in picture 4. Below this is a metal hook and eye which can be used to fasten the jacket tightly at the neck. Epaulettes are located to each shoulder and there is clear evidence of where the Army Air Force logo was originally to the top of the left sleeve. 

Inside the jacket the cotton lining is still present and is in very good condition with only some signs of wear. The original label is also still present and is bright and legible. It reads 

TYPE A-2
Drawing Number NO. 30-1415
CONTRACT NO. W535 AC-27752
ROUGH WEAR CLOTHING CO.
Middleton, PA
Property
AIR FORCE U.S. ARMY

Adjacent to this is the Army Navy ink stamp which has also survived in good condition and is still clear and legible. 

Original jackets made by Rough Wear are well known for being one of the best to survive the passage of time in good condition and this example is no exception. The leather is soft and pliable without any serious damage, scuffing or dryness. All of the woolen knits are the originals and are good save for some small holes which are illustrated in the pictures. The zip is very good and functions well although the box at the bottom is partly broken but doesn't affect functionality (picture 6). The overall condition is extremely good and a better jacket will take a long time to find. 

This is a truly excellent example of one of the most iconic jackets of the 20th Century. A must have for the serious collector!