501 Question

[doctorgnar]

I found a pair of levis 501 in a thrift shop today, raw or unwashed, unworn, big E on the tag--one-sided, hidden rivets on the back pockets, red-line selvedge, I think the leather tag read S501XX, the back pocket stitching was painted on or something, not stiched with thread...I'm not a Levis expert, how can I identify them for authenticity and type? They were going for $50 which seemed like a good deal, but I wasn't sure. Any ideas? What are some sure ways to ID 501s?

[soleindahole]

you mind taking a pic of those and show the details. so we can better assist.

[doctorgnar]

I am currently cameraless, and they are still in the store. Sorry, I was hoping I could figure something out with just a description.

[rnrswitch]

Hidden rivets and painted on back pocket stitching? Sounds like a hybrid of the 47s and 44s.

[adsurgo]

HOLY SHIT WHAT SIZE?!?!?!?! if those are originals they are definitely WWII era. please get back o me asap about the size.

[doctorgnar]

waist size 30, something tells me they weren't originals, they were in very good condition, look brand new, the leather on the tag looked very new, could have been washed once. how could i tell if they are originals?

Edited by doctorgnar on Sep 23, 2005 at 07:49 PM

[Shorty Long]

check the number stamped on the back of the top fly button...if it has three numbers ('555' or '554'), it's most definitely a repro...if only one number or a letter, it's most definitely an original...no number or two numbers could be a little more tricky

sounds like a good buy either way, but obviously MUCH better if they turn out to be originals

[jdavis]

also look for the laurel generic top button and steel rivets (check back pkts). and then of course turn it inside out and look for tags.

if the laurel button has 555, 554 or R its an LVC s501xx

Edited by jdavis on Sep 23, 2005 at 09:28 PM

[doctorgnar]

what tags am I looking for?

[XX]

not sure.. just buy them and post pics before you see someone else selling them on ebay!

i cant imagine a thrift store price being unreasonable?

Edited by XX on Sep 25, 2005 at 07:56 PM