July 13-15, 2021 Collectible Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 7/15/2021
World War II USN Mark 1 life vest that was used by US Navy and Marine Corps pilots and aircrew from 1938 until mid-World War II. These vests are quite desirable, as many MK-1 vests were thrown away or recycled for materials when they were worn out and were replaced by the later B-4 "Mae West" life vests when the Navy began to standardize equipment with the Army beginning in 1943. This vest has been well preserved and the rubberized canvas remains supple. The bottom edge is dry in spots, especially around the CO2 valves which have never been pulled. The manual rubber inflation tubes remain supple and can flex with ease. All elastic securing straps are present and functional showing no signs of fraying. The center strap is dry and exhibits slight cracks. There are blemishes scattered throughout the vest but it which are probably a result of service wear. Despite the blemishes, the vest is not soiled and this is a very well preserved example. CONDITION: Very good. JLD
Item Dimensions: 10" X 10"