Need Help Identifying This WWII A-2 Flight Jacket (Possible Original?)

[yas.f]

Hello everyone,


I recently acquired this A-2 flight jacket and I’m trying to determine whether it is an original WWII jacket or a later reproduction.


Here are some details:

• Label reads:
  • TYPE A-2
  • DWG. NO. 30-1415
  • ORDER NO. W535-AC-57115
• TALON zipper (Made in U.S.A.)
• Dot snap buttons
• Leather hanging loop
• Leather is still in very good condition because it has been regularly conditioned with proper leather oil for many years.
• The knit cuffs are damaged, but the waistband is still present.
• Original leather squadron patch on the chest.
• Painted Army Air Forces insignia remains on the shoulder.

What makes me curious is that I cannot find a manufacturer’s name anywhere on the jacket.


I’m hoping someone here can help identify:

1. Whether the label is authentic or a reproduction.
2. Which WWII contractor/manufacturer it most closely resembles.
3. Whether the zipper, collar shape, pocket shape, snaps, and stitching appear consistent with an original wartime A-2.
4. Whether the leather appears to be horsehide or goatskin.
5. An approximate market value if it is determined to be original.

I’ve attached detailed photos of the label, zipper, collar, pockets, shoulder artwork, lining, and overall jacket.


Any opinions would be greatly appreciated.


Thank you very much!

 

[Harris HTM]

Read this about the a2 contracts:
https://www.vintageleatherjackets.o...army-air-forces’-leather-flying-jacket.35493/
Judging from the spec label I would say repro. Definitely not goatskin.
Ask the fellows at the vlj forum, they are experts

 

[yas.f]

Read this about the a2 contracts:
https://www.vintageleatherjackets.org/threads/the-mighty-a-2-a-guide-to-the-army-air-forces’-leather-flying-jacket.35493/
Judging from the spec label I would say repro. Definitely not goatskin.
Ask the fellows at the vlj forum, they are experts

Thank you very much for your reply and for the link.

I really appreciate your opinion.

Could you please tell me which part of the spec label makes you think it is a reproduction?

I would really like to learn what details stand out to experienced collectors.

Also, thank you for recommending the VLJ forum. I may post there as well.

Thanks again!

 

[Harris HTM]

Could you please tell me which part of the spec label makes you think it is a reproduction?

Unless I am mistaken there is no such wartime order number and manufacturer's name. Also I think that newer versions of the a2, after 1988 have a different code system, consistent with the DLA system.
If I had to make a bet I would say a recent repro artificially aged to look as a wartime one. But I am no expert, I would definitely ask VLJ.