Code: 55952
A scarce original British made M-1938 'Coats, Mackinaw, Enlisted Men' dated 1944 and in excellent condition.
This is the first pattern of mackinaw coat, often referred to as a 'Jeep Coat' to be produced for the American military during the Second World War. It shares many details with the mackinaw coats produced during the Great War but is distinctly more modern. This pattern saw extensive issue throughout the Second World War in the ETO with the US Army and US Army Air force.
This example is a rare British made jacket which is made from a high quality Egyptian cotton twill rather than the lighter domestic cotton duck used for those produced in America. It is a notably deeper colour and the buttons are also different to the American made examples. Two large flapped pockets are located to the skirt and the wrists feature a button and tab detail. The most notable feature of these first pattern coats is the green serge wool blanket facing to the collar. The coat comes complete with its original matching waist belt which fastens with a metal slide buckle.
The inside of the coat is fully lined using British battledress serge material which creates a double layer. The original British label is still present and is bright and legible. It states the size as 42 and bears the maker's name of 'J. Harvey Ltd London'. The War Department broad arrow marking is also present as is the 1944 date, The USA ETO Specfn No. U/1264A and the UK Cont No. 292/16/N.1243/1.
The coat is designed to fit a 42" and when laid flat it measures -
Chest - 24"
Inside arm - 18 1/4"
Outside arm - 25 1/4"
Shoulders - 19 1/2"
Length - 33 1/2"
The coat is in good condition with signs of wear and use. Overall it displays well and is very wearable with no serious flaws or damage. There is wear to the cuffs and some fading and staining etc which is to be expected of a vintage item such as this. The condition is good but please take time to study the pictures and bear in mind that this is a vintage, pre-owned item which may have very small flaws commensurate with age.
A fantastic example of a rare British made coat. Not only that but it is a hard to find larger size!
