NOTE: I am classifying this shirt as an original period-correct crew-issued t-shirt, as evidenced by the ONLY decoration being the simple block letter
ship's title with a submarine being flanked by 2 dolphins and the ship's
classification below--which is the SAME design as the badge a US Navy
submariner wears. That this shirt has JUST the simple name, submariner's
decoration, and ship's number on it, on the left front chest, and NOTHING
else is consistent with what a crew member would be issued to wear
in a casual setting.
I am of the opinion that garments such as this are very rarely
discarded because they would be cherished mementos of proud
service. That the USS Kamehameha is such a noteworthy submarine from being named after a Hawiian king would make such items
that much more desirable for military collectors.
The USS Kamehameha served as SSBN 642 from December
1965 to September 1992, so this shirt was created and crew-issued
sometime in that period.
Period-correct 50/50 Poly/Cotton fabric, which was widely used in the 1970's
and 80's.
Ink is beginning to crack from age and there are three small holes in the bottom
front of the shirt, so I would recommend hand washing and air drying ONLY
to preserve the print.
If you are looking to wear this shirt, please bear in mind that with a late 1970's
to early 1980's shirt, the "Large" designation may be a bit smaller than a 2020's
"Large" size.
Thanks for looking!