Levi's Vintage Clothing Drops the S506XX 1944 WWII Great War Model Jacket
The jacket was produced during World War II.
Summary
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The Levi’s S506XX 1944 “War Model” is a specialized Type I reproduction featuring the unique and simplified details mandated by World War II resource rationing
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Historical hallmarks include the omission of the pocket flap, a four-button front utilizing laurel leaf hardware, and period-correct irregular selvedge denim
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Available exclusively via lottery, this release caters to high-level collectors looking for the most accurate representation of 1940s American workwear heritage
For the most discerning denim historians, the opportunity to own a “Great War Model” represents the pinnacle of archival collecting. Levi’s Vintage Clothing has announced an exclusive lottery for the S506XX 1944 Jacket, a meticulous reproduction of the ultra-rare Type I silhouette manufactured during the height of World War II. Because of the strict resource rationing mandated by the U.S. government at the time, the original 1944 garments featured unique “simplified” characteristics that have since become legendary among vintage aficionados.
This faithful recreation honors the spirit of the S506XX (where the “S” stands for Simplified) by mirroring every historical anomaly caused by wartime constraints. This includes the removal of the pocket flap and the transition to a four-button front rather than the standard five. The jacket features the iconic laurel leaf “doughnut” buttons—a hallmark of the era when standard branded hardware was redirected toward the war effort. Even the fabric itself has been adjusted to reflect the slightly irregular, rugged texture of mid-40s selvedge denim.
From the simplified construction to the distinct cinch-back design, the 1944 War Model stands as a testament to Levi’s endurance through global upheaval. By strictly adhering to the “Great War” specifications, Levi’s Vintage Clothing provides a tangible connection to a era where every stitch and rivet was a matter of national priority. The piece is now available via the Levi’s store online.
