Rare Original 1942 Dated Ladies NFS 80 Tunic - Liverpool

Rare Original 1942 Dated Ladies NFS 80 Tunic - Liverpool

Code: 53657

SOLD

A rare original National Fire Service Tunic dating from 1942 and in good condition. 

The National Fire Service was formed in August 1941 by amalgamating the wartime Auxiliary Fire Service and the local authority fire brigades, making this jacket an early issue example. Officially designated 'Jacket NFS 80'; this example belonged to a leading firewoman in Liverpool who appears to have served throughout the Second World War. 

The jacket is made from a black coloured wool serge and features a single breasted front and a convertable stand and fall collar which can be fastened around the throat. Plain patch pockets are located the chest and feature pointed pocket flaps, whilst flapped pockets can be found to the skirt. Silver coloured metal buttons which feature the 'NFS' logo are fitted throughout and the original waist belt is also still present, as is the waist buckle.

The jacket comes complete with insignia which is undoubtedly original to the jacket. Leading Firewomen rank is fitted to the epaulettes and there is an NFS badge to the left breast pocket which features the area number of 26 which denotes Liverpool. To the bottom of the right sleeve are five long service chevrons which denote five years of service. Interestingly, a set of four were added at once with a single extra cevron added, almost certainly, at a later date. 

Inside the tunic this original label is still present and is most legible. The size of 13 and the specific size details are legible as is the maker's name of 'Johnson & Co Ltd' and the 1942 date. 

The jacket is designed to fit a 34"-35" bust and when laid flat it measures - 

Chest - 18 1/2"
Waist - 14 1/2"
Inside arm - 17 1/2"
Outside arm - 24"
Shoulders - 14 3/4"
Length - 27"

The jacket is in good condition overall and is still very wearable. Whilst it displays well, it does have a few flaws including holes to the rear right shoulder and another to the inside of the left sleeve as shown in the pictures. There are also a couple more small moth holes, although these are only noticeable under close inspection. 

A nice original jacket with an early date and with all of its original insignia. This would make an excellent addition to any Home Front collection without a doubt!