Vintage 1947 LEVI'S 506 Big E Denim Jacket

 

ORIGINAL VINTAGE 1947 to 1948 LEVI'S BIG E Denim Jacket.

 One Pocket, no label tag.

 Pleats in front Buckle in the back.

Copper rivets, number # 17 stamped on back button.

One-Sided LEVI'S Tab on Pocket.

 

 

 

 

 

While Levi Strauss & Co. was established in the mid 1800’s, (see history of Levi 501’s) it was not until 1905 that the first Levi Blouse (Jacket) was recorded. Made in 9 oz. double heavy quality XX denim, it was known as the 506 (the term Number One was used after 1917). The word Blouse was used by Levi Strauss & Co. until around 1938, when the word “jacket” was used in it’s western wear catalog.

The 506XX Blouse had a single breast pocket on the left side of the front of the jacket and featured rivets at the corners of the pocket. These disappeared in later models. As with the early Levi Jeans, a martingale or cincher was used on the lower back. Rivets were also used to reinforce the cuff vents. There were 6 versions in this particular Levi's Jacket model dated 1905, 1928, 1936, 1941, 1944 and 1947. Details varied as different versions emerged such as the departure of donut style buttons in early models to logo style buttons in later models. In addition the early versions had no front pocket flap and with later models this feature was added. On the 1936 version, the Red Tab started to appear. Moreover like the 501 during World War II, special and unnecessary detailing was dispensed with in these versions.

In the late 1940’s, Levi created a light weight western wear line for both men and ladies. The womens jackets were made with stone shield snap fasteners. In addition, in the 1950’s Levi introduced the “Sawtooth” western shirt. The name comes from the jagged appearance of the stitching on the yokes and pockets.