Vintage U.S. Army M-43 Field Jacket

Vintage U.S. Army M-43 Field Jacket

This is a vintage M-43 field jacket, also known as the "M-43 Field Jacket," adopted in 1943 as a versatile field jacket for all branches of the U.S. military during World War II.

The specification tag, usually sewn inside the right pocket, is missing. Therefore, please understand that the description is based on estimations.

Although there are many replicas and reproductions of this jacket, the store owner of Cerastoa has determined that this is likely an original based on various identifying features, including the texture of the cotton satin, the fineness of the stitching, the texture of the urea buttons, the thick twill lining of the pocket bags, and the shape of the collar tips and epaulets.

In 1942, the U.S. military began developing a common field uniform for all branches. The requirements were to ensure freedom of movement while also allowing for layering of other cold-weather materials inside the jacket. It is said that unifying the design and specifications of field uniforms, which had previously been specific to different missions, also aimed to reduce military spending.

Featuring four large pockets, a fly front, and durable cotton satin fabric, this jacket is considered a masterpiece that became the foundation for the functional layering system that continued with the M-51 and M-65.

Looking at this garment, one is struck by its clear purpose driven by military needs, and the resulting rational design, fabric selection, and sewing specifications. The precision of the double stitching and the careful bar tacking demonstrate the overwhelming quality of a military product that meets the military specification standards, made with national budget.

⚫︎Size
Unmarked (Equivalent to Japanese women's size L, men's size S-M)
Shoulder width: 48cm
Body width: 54cm
Length: 75cm
Sleeve length: 59cm
Cuff width: 12cm
Armhole: 26cm
※The model in the wearing image is a woman with a height of 166cm.

⚫︎Color
Olive

⚫︎Material
Unmarked (Presumed to be cotton)

⚫︎Country of Origin
Unmarked (Presumed to be made in the USA)

⚫︎Condition
There is a yellow-green paint stain on the left sleeve elbow area (photo 13) and the collar tip (photo 14).
There are no noticeable external damages or fraying.

As this is a used/vintage item, there may be minor stains or deterioration from storage that are not easily noticeable.