Original 1941 Dated Civil Defence ARP Warden ARP 59 Battledress Jacket

A fantastic original 1941 dated ARP Warden's battledress blouse, complete with all of its original insignia. 

This pattern of battledress was introduced into service with the Civil Defence in February 1941 which makes this a very early example. It clearly saw use throughout the war, as is evident by the wear as well as the long service chevrons fitted to the lower part of the right sleeve. The jacket is labelled as a 'Blouses, A.R.P. 59.' which is the rescue pattern and is made from a heavier serge wool than the A.R.P. 57 uniform. A covered fly front and fly fronted pockets are notable attributes of this early pattern, copied from the British Army pattern. 

The jacket retains all of its original insignia including wartime economy printed 'Warden' shoulder titles to the top of each sleeve, round Civil Defence 'CD' breast pocket badge and two long service chevrons are located to the bottom of the right hand sleeve, denoting two years of service. An ARP silver badge is fitted to the left breast pocket whilst a Women's Institute 'For Home and Country' badge is fitted to the right pocket. The jacket also has two lanyards. One is the yellow 'old gold' colour type, whilst the second is black. Fitted to the end of the black Lanyard is an ARP whistle which is again original to the jacket. 

Inside the jacket the original label is still present and is bright and legible. It bears the title 'Blouses A.R.P. 59' along with the size of 10.The maker's name of 'John Hammond & Co' is also present as is the 1941 date. There is also a War Department acceptance stamp to the interior which is surmounted by the letter 'P' which confirms the year of issue as 1941.   

The jacket is in good condition for its age and displays well. It is not a perfect, un-issued example but is instead a well worn and used jacket which has been well looked after and therefore has no serious flaws. It is a vintage, worn piece of WW2 uniform so please study the pictures before purchasing. 

A truly excellent original Air Raid Warden's battledress, complete with an excellent label, badges and whistle. This would make a fine addition to any Home Front collection!