The US Navy Peacoat was adopted during the early 20th Century, from Britain's Royal Navy Reefer Jacket. The Royal Navy's first regulations for uniforms for other ranks were issued in 1857, a century after the regulations for officers, and this garment was originally used by Midshipmen (Reefers). These crewmen had to climb the rigging and furl and unfurl, or 'reef', the sails of the sailing ships of the era.
The jacket was short, to allow ease of movement through the rigging. It had a double breasted front, which displaced the buttons to each side; this helped reduce the chance of them getting caught on ropes, as the wearer manoeuvres the sails.
This is a vintage USN Enlisted Man's kersey wool pea coat with 8 anchor button front fastening, fully lined, with cord lined pockets and internal stencils. This internal label along with the 8 button front dates this to the 1950s.
Used and in good vintage condition considering the age, with general signs of wear and abrasion throughout, in particular to the cuff ends, pockets and collar. The front button holes have some stitching that has worn away but they still function fine. There are some light moth nibbled areas to the front right arm near the badge and centre front hem but this is not visible when the double breast is buttoned. An amazing jacket that has stood the test of time. Steamed and ready for a new owner.
All my vintage listings unless otherwise stated are true vintage and have been worn before, therefore they will typically show signs of wear and will not smell like new, which is all part of the vintage look and appeal.
COLOUR: Dark Navy Blue
SIZE: 36 on the label and this fits like S (UK Sizing) with a 41in full external chest and the overall fit - but it depends how loose you like to wear (please see below for all key measurements to check against a similar garment of your own to ensure a good fit)
FABRIC: Kersey Wool. The jacket weighs approx 2.1kg
DETAILS:
- 8 button double breasted front
- Military anchor buttons
- Handwarmer jetted pockets cord lined
- Internal welt pockets
- Rear centre vent
- Fully lined
- Fabric back neck hanger loop
- Embroidered arm badge
HOW TO CHOOSE YOUR SIZE: Please DO NOT solely rely on the listed size for your correct fit. Designers often use different measurements for sizes depending on the overall look they desire, so sizes can not only vary brand to brand but also within the same brand. Also, for vintage and pre-worn items the shape may have changed after years of being worn. The best way to ensure your correct fit is to compare the measurements listed to a similar item that fits you well.
EXTERNAL MEASUREMENTS: Please check against a similar garment of your own that fits you well, measuring flat and fully zipped or buttoned up (if applicable) on a flat surface:
A - CHEST - armpit to armpit (double for full chest): 20.5in (52cm)
B - SLEEVE - shoulder seam to cuff end: 26in (66cm)
C - SHOULDER - distance between shoulder seams straight across at the back: 19in (48cm)
D - LENGTH - at the centre back from the base of the collar to the hem: 32in (81cm)
PEA051 A2
