Original U.S. Vietnam War Era TA-43/PT Field Telephone Set – Complete Pair in Excellent Condition

Step back into the history of military communications with this rare and complete set of two U.S. Vietnam War-era TA-43/PT field telephones. These rugged, portable communication devices were a lifeline for American troops during the Vietnam War (1955–1975), providing secure, wired communication in the dense jungles and harsh environments of Southeast Asia. This set is a must-have for military history enthusiasts, collectors of Vietnam War memorabilia, or reenactors looking to add an authentic piece to their kit.

Historical Significance:
The TA-43/PT field telephone was a critical tool for U.S. forces during the Vietnam War, used to establish point-to-point communication between command posts, observation points, and frontline units. As a successor to the WWII-era EE-8 telephone, the TA-43/PT offered improved versatility with its sound-powered operation (no batteries needed for short distances) and compatibility with field switchboards like the SB-22/PT. These telephones allowed soldiers to coordinate operations over miles of field wire, ensuring secure communication in environments where radio signals were unreliable or vulnerable to enemy interception. The TA-43/PT remained in use through the 1980s, making it a bridge between mid-20th-century military technology and the modern era.

Details of the Set:
- Complete Pair: This listing includes two TA-43/PT field telephones, each with its original CY-1277/PT canvas carrying case, handset, and internal components. A complete set like this is rare to find, as many surviving examples are missing parts or sold individually.
- Markings: One of the cases is stamped with "TELEPHONE SET TA-277/PT BLA900-84-C-1326," indicating a 1984 contract date. The TA-277/PT is the telephone unit itself, housed within the TA-43/PT assembly, which includes the case. This marking suggests the set may have been reissued or used in the 1980s, possibly for training or National Guard purposes, though the design is identical to Vietnam War-era models.
- Condition: Both telephones are in excellent condition for their age, showing authentic signs of use that add to their historical character. The olive drab canvas cases have minor fraying and discoloration but remain fully intact with functional zippers and straps. The handsets, made of durable bakelite, are in great shape with intact coiled cords. The internal components, including the magneto crank, binding posts, and switches, appear well-preserved and operational.
- Functionality: These telephones are sound-powered, meaning they can operate without batteries for short distances by converting the user’s voice into an electrical signal. They can also be powered with D-cell batteries (not included) for longer ranges or switchboard use. While untested in this listing, the set appears fully functional and ready for use in historical reenactments, off-grid communication setups, or as a display piece.

Why This Set Stands Out:
- Completeness: Finding a matching pair of TA-43/PT field telephones with all original components is increasingly difficult, making this set a rare opportunity for collectors.
- Historical Authenticity: The wear on the canvas cases and handsets tells a story of real field use, whether in the jungles of Vietnam or during later military exercises in the 1980s.
- Versatility: Perfect for display in a military collection, use in Vietnam War reenactments, or as a functional piece for survivalists interested in vintage communication technology.

Additional Notes:
- The set does not include field wire, but this can be easily sourced for those looking to test the telephones. Each unit weighs approximately 5–7 pounds with the case, making them easy to transport or display.
- The shoulder straps on both cases are intact, allowing for hands-free carrying as originally intended for soldiers in the field.

FREE SHIPPING!

kp86