Original 1945 Dated British Army Airborne Troops Denison Smock - Size 5

An original British Army Airborne Troops Denison Smock which is dated 1945 and is a size no. 5. 

The Denison smock is one of the most iconic garments of the Second World War due to its association with airborne forces, paratroopers, Commandos the SAS and many more. Developed in the early part of WW2 following the formation of the first airborne units, this is a second pattern example produced in 1945. The camouflage pattern which was designed by Major Denison is screen printed directly onto the cloth and features a sand coloured background with a green and brown 'brushstroke' pattern over this.

The smock features four patch pockets to the front and fasten with brass 'Newey' branded press studs. The front fastens with a nickel plated zipper which features a 'Lightning' branded puller which is typical of the period. Epaulettes are located to each shoulder which fasten with green coloured vegetable ivory (plastic) buttons which were commonly used on garments made in 1944 and 1945. buttons are fitted to the end of each cuff which allows for the cuff to be tightened around that wearer's wrist via a tab. There are more press studs to the front which allows the tail to be secured between the wearer's legs. The tail has been removed, as was often done with smocks that saw use. 

The interior of the smock features two pockets to the chest which are made from the same material as the body of the smock. The original maker's label is present to the interior and bears the title 'Smocks, Denison Airborne Troops' along with the maker's name of 'Denhams (Norwich) Ltd'. The size is marked as 5 below which is the 1945 date and the War Department broad arrow. 

These smocks are cut in a wide manner to allow for plenty of free movement when worn over the battledress uniform. The smock is designed to fit a 37" - 39" chest and when laid flat it measures - 

Chest - 28 1/2 "
Inside arm - 23 1/2"
Outside arm - 25 3/4"
Shoulder - 21 1/2"
Length at rear - 34 1/2"

The smock is in very good condition overall with deep, strong colours and no signs of undue wear or over exposure to sunlight. On the whole it has a very fresh appearance and displays very well indeed. There is some limited staining as well as a couple of holes to the rear as illustrated in the pictures. One of the rear press studs is also missing. Please take time to study these before purchasing and bear in mind that it is a vintage, pre-owned item which may have small flaws commensurate with age. 

All in all an excellent example of a wartime Denison Smock which would make a fantastic addition to any collection. 

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