The South Vietnamese Marine Corps (VNMC) 4th Pattern Tiger Stripe, one of the most iconic camouflage patterns of the Vietnam War, continues to captivate collectors around the world.Commonly known as the “Sea Wave Pattern,” this is a rare two-piece set of the popular pattern used from around 1968 through the early 1970s. Specifically, this is a rare two-piece set featuring the four-pocket style.

This 4th Pattern is characterized by softer, more streamlined stripes than previous Tiger Stripe designs, as well as the light, comfortable feel unique to lightweight cotton twill. The print, which has beautifully permeated all the way through to the reverse side of the fabric, is a charm unique to locally made Tiger Stripe uniforms of that era, exuding a distinctive presence that makes it instantly recognizable as a vintage piece.

This item is an authentic piece bearing a 1969 government issue stamp. It is an extremely valuable garment, as the stamp confirms it was issued to the South Vietnamese Marine Corps.

Rather than the standard two-pocket style, this jacket is a four-pocket jungle fatigue-style design. This is a rare specification typically seen in the South Vietnamese Marine Corps and special forces, and details designed for functionality in actual combat can be seen throughout.The sleeves are currently about three-quarter length, but judging by the stitching, it appears they were shortened after issuance. However, it seems the jacket was hardly used after being altered, as the fabric as a whole shows no significant signs of wear.

The pants are utility-style, made from the same fabric and pattern. Both the jacket and pants form a matching set with consistent camouflage coloration and fabric texture; a set in such excellent condition is extremely rare on the market.

In the late 1960s, when the Vietnam War was at its height, the South Vietnamese Marine Corps participated in numerous operations alongside the U.S. Army and Marine Corps and was known for its high combat effectiveness. This tiger-stripe camouflage continues to hold a special significance today as equipment symbolic of that elite unit.The tiger-stripe camouflage used by the U.S. military was modeled after the pattern used by the VNMC and subsequently evolved independently.

The vivid contrast between olive green and black remains strikingly beautiful to this day, and its excellent condition—with minimal fading—is a major attraction. The lightweight fabric, with dye thoroughly penetrated through to the reverse side, allows you to fully appreciate the unique character of locally made tiger-stripe camouflage.

Authentic South Vietnamese Marine Corps tiger-stripe items are becoming increasingly difficult to obtain, and it is extremely rare to find a set that meets all these criteria: an official issue stamp, manufactured in 1969, a matching jacket and pants set, and a four-pocket jacket design. This is undoubtedly a magnificent set that will serve as the centerpiece of any collection dedicated to Vietnam War-era equipment.

Condition

Used.

There is minimal fading overall, and the fabric retains its color well. Both the issue stamp and the 1969 stamp are clearly visible. The jacket sleeves have been altered to approximately three-quarter length, but the fabric is in good condition, and both the jacket and pants remain in excellent shape.

Please note that returns are not accepted for used items.

Size (Flat Measurements)

Jacket
Shoulder Width: 42 cm

Chest width: 45 cm

Length: 63 cm

Sleeve Length: 32 cm

Pants

Waist: 35 cm

Hip: 49 cm

Rise: 26 cm

Inseam: 70 cm

Thigh width: 27 cm

Hem width: 23 cm