The Poughkeepsie contract has always been one of my favourites and I currently own three, including an almost mint example. This is my latest Poughkeepsie. It is slightly different from the other two in that it does not have the double barrel eyelet for attaching the collar hook, which was commonly used on jackets from this contract, just two separate eyelets. The leather, either horsehide or more likely cowhide, is more of a russet hew than most of the Poughkeepsies that I have seen. On 18th May 1942 the US Material Command placed an order for 50,000 A2s from Poughkeepsie Leather Coat Co. They tended to be made of thin leather, although this one is made from thicker leather.
The leather is supple and does not have rot or repairs. The knits and waistband were replaced many years ago and although they do not match the Chelsea brown shade seen on originals are so well done that I am not tempted to replace them. The zipper is a M-42 Talon.
Often mistaken for Aeros because as they look similar, Poughkeepsie A2s had distinct features, such as the absence of the triangular reinforcement stitching at the bottom of the zipper, curved bottoms to the pockets and were often constructed with a light olive drab thread. This example is in great condition and is very comfortable to wear.
The leather is supple and does not have rot or repairs. The knits and waistband were replaced many years ago and although they do not match the Chelsea brown shade seen on originals are so well done that I am not tempted to replace them. The zipper is a M-42 Talon.
Often mistaken for Aeros because as they look similar, Poughkeepsie A2s had distinct features, such as the absence of the triangular reinforcement stitching at the bottom of the zipper, curved bottoms to the pockets and were often constructed with a light olive drab thread. This example is in great condition and is very comfortable to wear.
