Original 1950s British Men's Duffle Coat by 'Amethyst'

An original duffle coat made by 'Amethyst' in the 1950s.

This style of coat was first used by the Royal Navy during the Second World War. The design was extremely popular leading to them becoming a fashionable coat in the post-war years with civilians. Whilst some people bought ex-military examples from army surplus or similar, many bought them new from private manufacturers. This example is the latter and is typical of those made in the 1950s. 

Like its military counterpart the coat is made from a thick, heavy camel hair wool which is very warm. The coat fastens with four wooden toggles to the front and features tabs which fasten at the wrists. There is also a hood and two large patch pockets are located at the front of the coat and a throat latch is also present. The design is extremely close to the military examples it is based on.

Inside the coat the original label is still present and states the manufacturer's name as 'Amethyst'. The label also bears the words 'Pure Wool' and 'Showerproof' which are often found on outerwear made during this decade. The graphics are also typical of the 1950s and date the coat to the earlier part of the decade.

These coats are cut in a large, oversize manner as they were designed to be worn over uniform originally. When laid flat it measures - 

Chest - 26 1/2"
Inside arm - 18 1/2"
Outside arm - 23 1/2"
Shoulders - 20"
Length - 38 1/2"

The coat is in good condition and is still very wearable. There are signs of wear and age etc but on the whole it displays well. Please study the pictures before purchasing and bear in mind that this is a vintage, pre-worn coat which may have small flaws commensurate with age. 

A nice example of this design classic in good wearable condition.

This is a vintage item which is 'sold as seen'