Code: 54290
A rare original Women's Auxiliary Air Force tunic dating from the very early part of the Second World War.
This pattern of tunic is a rare early version which features a French cuff, sometimes referred to as a jam jar cuff. They were issued to all ranks in the WAAF under the rank of officer in 1939 and into 1940 before being replaced with a simplified version which did not have the additional cuff detail. It would have still been worn throughout the Second World War as both a working uniform and a 'best' uniform. It is cut in the same manner as other British women's military tunics from WW2 from an RAF blue-grey coloured barathea wool. It features pleated pockets to the breast and flapped pockets to the skirt. The original waist belt is also still present and retains its original brass buckle.
The tunic is fitted with a full set of early war pattern insignia which is undoubtedly original to the jacket. Embroidered eagle badges are fitted to the top of each shoulder and below this on the right shoulder is an embroidered wireless operators badge. Corporal stripes are fitted to both sleeves.
Inside the tunic is fully lined and features a First Field Dressing pocket to the skirt and a hanging loop to the neck. The original label is still present although it has been washed out leaving no details legible. The original owner has marked her name in ink however below the hanging loop which reads 'D. Walker 1647069'
The jacket is a smaller size which will suit around a 32" bust. When laid flat it measures -
Chest - 18"
Waist - 14"
Inside arm - 15 3/4"
Outside arm - 22 1/2"
Shoulders - 14 3/4"
Length - 25 1/2"
The jacket is in good condition with some signs of service wear etc. There are a couple of small holes to the front which are illustrated in pictures 4 and 5. There is a small darn to the rear and also a couple more to the interior which are clearly period repairs which were most likely carried out by the original owner. The tunic displays very well but please take time to study the pictures before purchasing.
A very rare early war pattern tunic which would be ideal for a Battle for France or Battle of Britain collector.
