Code: 55152
A very rare pair of British military overalls which belonged to a member of the RAF who served on Christmas Island in the 1950s as part of Operation Grapple which was the joint British and American nuclear testing programme.
Officially designated 'Overalls Combination (Without Buttons) Atomic Energy', this pattern of overalls was specifically designed for members of the military working on atomic projects. The original owner of this suit worked on Christmas Island in the late 1950s as a wireless specialist with the RAF and various documents and paperwork pertaining to his career are available separately.
The overalls are made from a white coloured cotton drill and feature a maternity style front fastening. This fastens with 'Newey' branded nickel press studs which feature a green painted finish to the exterior which was commonly used on military items from the Second World War through to the 1950s. More of these press studs are fitted to the sleeves and trouser cuffs which allow them to be fastened tightly. There are belt loops at the waist and a standard stand and fall collar.
Inside the overalls there is a hanging loop at the neck. The original label is also present inside the overalls which bears the size of 4 along with the maker's name of 'H. W. Ashton Ltd'. Below this is the 1951 date and the War Department broad arrow marking. Adjacent to this is the War Department acceptance stamp which is surmounted by the letter 'C'.
The overalls are in good condition with some signs of wear and use. There is some staining and other signs of age as well as a hole to the of the left leg as illustrated in the pictures. Please take time to study these before purchasing and bear in mind that they are a vintage, pre-owned item which have some flaws commensurate with age.
A very rare item of Atomic period military clothing with some fantastic design details.
