US Army Scarf, Bib-Type – ERDL Camo – Vietnam War – Hallmark G-23

A pristine vintage US Army Special Forces Beret dated August 1973. Manufactured by the highly collectible "Fleur de Lis" (Dorothea Knitting Mills), known for producing the best-shaped berets of the Vietnam era. It features a vintage 3rd Special Forces Group flash with the desirable "Cut Edge" construction and a pinned DUI crest. Note: Size is 6 1/4(extra small), making this a perfect display piece rather than wearable items.

This T61-5 body armor, officially designated MIL-A-43197, represents a fascinating chapter in military equipment history. Developed in the mid-1960s, the T61-5 was designed to be a more ergonomic and flexible successor to the older M1952A model. Its innovative construction featured over 100 individual titanium plates, intended to provide superior protection and comfort.

Although it officially became the U.S. Army's standard-issue vest "on paper" in 1965, it never saw widespread adoption in reality. With the escalation of the Vietnam War, the T61-5 proved too expensive and complex to manufacture for mass deployment. The Army instead opted for a simpler, cheaper, updated version of the M1952A (the "3/4 collar" model).

Despite being an Army design, the T61-5 found its primary use elsewhere. It became characteristic equipment for the U.S. Navy's "Brown Water Navy" units operating in the rivers and coastal areas of Vietnam from 1966 onwards. It was also used by some U.S. Army mechanized infantry, armor, and armored cavalry units between 1969-1971.

Key Features:

• Official Designation: MIL-A-43197

• Common Name: T61-5 Composite Armor

• Standard Publication Date: Feb. 10, 1964

• Construction: Composite material with over 100 titanium plates

• Historical Status: Superseded, cancelled in 1972 with no direct replacement

• Primary Users: US Navy ("Brown Water Navy"), US Army mechanized units in Vietnam

This vest is an exceptional and rare collector's item, documenting the push for innovation in personal protection during one of the most significant conflicts of the 20th century.

An incredible find for Vietnam War collectors: An original ARVN (Army of the Republic of Vietnam) Rucksack in Unused / Unissued condition. Finding indigenous gear in this state of preservation is exceptionally rare. This pack features the classic two-pocket design and the distinctive metal "X-Frame" suspension system. Condition Note: The pack is missing the side utility straps. The metal hardware shows oxidation/verdigris consistent with long-term storage.

Rare 1st Pattern OG-107 Sateen Shirt (Type I). Rectangular pocket flaps. Dated 1962. Full color Sergeant First Class insignia. Size Medium (Chest 37-41"). Authentic vintage condition..

A fantastic collector's piece from the late Vietnam War era: US Navy Inflatable Life Preserver, specification MIL-L-21047 (SHIPS). The stencil clearly dates the manufacture to APRIL 1973. Unlike many surplus vests, this one is in very nice, lightly used condition with vibrant markings and supple fabric. Comes complete with 4 CO2 cylinders installed.

A highly desirable Technical Manual (TM 9-1005-249-14) dated August 1966. This manual is a treasure trove for early Vietnam War collectors. It covers the maintenance and repair of the M16 and XM16E1 rifles, but its primary value lies in the inclusion of the XM148 40mm Grenade Launcher. The XM148 was an experimental, failure-prone predecessor to the M203, used briefly by US Special Forces. Original documentation for the XM148 is extremely scarce.

A true time capsule find: An Original US Army Wool Blanket from the Vietnam War era, sourced from cases dated 1968 and 1970. This item is New Old Stock (NOS) and remains sealed in its original plastic wrapper, ensuring it is free from moth damage or wear. It includes the original paper insert listing the nomenclature BLANKET, BED, WOOL, OG-118. An essential piece for any serious Vietnam militaria collection.

The essential reference guide for collectors of Vietnam War memorabilia, focusing specifically on the opposing forces. "Weapons and Field Gear of the North Vietnamese Army and Viet Cong" by Edward J. Emering is a high-quality hardcover book published by Schiffer Military History. It provides an in-depth look at the uniforms, equipment, and weapons used by Communist forces, making it a vital tool for authentication.