Artillery set

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• Historical Status: Superseded, cancelled in 1972 with no direct replacement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

Unused USMC Field Pack, Canvas Combat. There are small spots on the back, see photo.

Unused carrying case for the M-16 rifle bipod.

Used trousers (Trousers, Twill, Khaki With Hip Pockets). Size 28x33. Waist 68 cm, leg length from waist 104 cm. Year of manufacture 1957.

Used M1 helmet with cover and elastic band. Liner Type I from 1964. The cover is from 1964. The helmet has a clearly visible heat stamp. Used, but in good condition.

A rare piece of Special Operations history. The original HT-2A "Village Radio" transceiver. Distributed by the CIA and US Army Special Forces (Green Berets) to CIDG (Civilian Irregular Defense Group) units. Used by local militias to call for support during Viet Cong attacks.

Unused ARVN backpack. The backpack is without side straps. Unused condition - stored for a long time.

M7 Imperial Bayonet Vietnam Honor Commemorative – 1st Division USMC

A rare collector's M7 Bayonet by Imperial from the Vietnam Honor Commemorative series.

The blade features etched motifs with a Vietnam War theme. The crossguard, pommel, and screws are gold-plated, highlighting its display quality.

Unique Feature: This model stands out from standard production by featuring the 1st Marine Division (1st Division USMC) insignia on the grip instead of the usual EGA emblem.

• Manufacturer: Imperial

• Series: Vietnam Honor Commemorative

• Model: M7

• Unique Emblem: 1st Division USMC

Please Note: This is a loose item, sold without the original box or certificate. A fantastic opportunity for collectors of USMC and Vietnam-era militaria.

Used trousers, men's, cotton wind resistant ripstop poplin. Size Small Long. The trousers have one stain on the thigh, see photo. Overall good condition.

Unused M7 bayonet from Imperial. The M8A1 scabbard is unused from PWH.

M7 bayonet from Imperial. Metal parts are chrome-plated. Bayonet only, without scabbard.

Special Forces shoulder patch (without arc) from the Vietnam War. Variant with a hemmed edge.