M17A1 Gas Mask Bag - Large

Used M1956 holster for two magazines for the Colt 1911 pistol. The holster has been repaired, see photo.

US field bottle, 1 quart, from 1966. Cover with cotton trim and drinking cup.

Unused 5qt water bag. Contract 1968.

M1 helmet liner manufactured by Firestone with commemorative 1st Cavalry painting and An Khe 1965 inscription.

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• Historical Status: Superseded, cancelled in 1972 with no direct replacement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 original Vietcong outfit brought back from Vietnam by a former member of the Green Berets (Special Forces), along with other artifacts. Redeemed along with part of the estate from the USA. Size corresponds to X-Small. Very interesting collection item.

Originally packed M6 bayonet from MIlpar. Packing date 1961. Only bayonet.