Description
The U.S. Navy pea coat is one of the most recognizable garments of the Second World War, known for its durable construction and timeless naval style. The design itself dates to the early twentieth century, but during the war years it was standardized under the authority of the Naval Clothing Depot in Brooklyn, New York, which produced vast quantities for enlisted sailors. Wartime examples, featured a traditional eight or ten button double-breasted front, a configuration that was typical throughout the 1930s and 1940s. The later post-war revisions to uniform specifications slightly altered the cut and button spacing.
Constructed from coarse 32-ounce dark navy melton wool, the pea coat provided warmth and weather protection for sailors serving on destroyers, cruisers, carriers, and submarines in both Atlantic and Pacific operations. Each coat carried a printed Naval Clothing Depot label and contract number confirming government manufacture. The quality of these wartime garments has ensured their survival, and today they remain among the most iconic and collectible examples of American naval uniform design.Made of wool for the Naval Clothing Depot, this regulation double-breasted coat is in SUPERB used condition! Manufactured under contract number N140-62236S-25567B, I believe this dates to the late 1940s, and early 1950s. It retains the complete interior label reading “Manufactured for Naval Clothing Depot – 100% Wool exclusive of ornamentation“. It is constructed of heavy 32-ounce dark navy melton wool, featuring the traditional eight large fouled-anchor buttons on the front, broad lapels, and two front hand-warmer pockets. The interior is fully lined and remains in EXCELLENT condition overall, showing only minor period wear from service use. All buttons are intact and original, the seams remain strong, and the label is clearly legible. The coat is named to the sailor who wore it (I have additional items from his estate), and it displays beautifully, representing an authentic example of a wartime issue garment supplied to enlisted sailors across the U.S. Fleet. A PERFECT addition to any collection or display!
