Original British Army 1960 Pattern Combat Jacket - Size 5

An original 1960 pattern combat smock in good condition and in a size 5. 

This pattern of smock was introduced in the early 1960s and replaced the earlier Sateen combat smock. It is the for-runner to the ubiquitous 1968 pattern combat smock issued throughout the 1970s and 1980s. Notable features of this earlier smock is the flat green colour and the stitched collar. This smock dates from between the late 1960s and the early 1970s based on the contract number. 

This particular smock belonged to John Trussler who fought in Korea with the King's Shropshire Light Infantry and then served in the TA for many years through the 1960s and 1970s.

The smock is made from a dark olive green coloured cotton sateen and features patch pockets to the chest and lower pockets which are pleated to allow them to expand. Long sleeves end in a buttoning barrel cuff whilst the elbow features a double layer reinforcement. The left breast pocket features a stitched section to allow a pen to be held.The bottom drawstring is still present as is the waist drawstring.

The front of the jacket fastens with an 'NZ' branded zipper, as are commonly found on combat jackets made during this period.

Inside the jacket the features a poachers pocket which fastens with a single grey-green coloured plastic button. Two original labels are present including the manufacturer's label which bears the title 'Smock Combat 1960 Pattern' and the size of 5. The maker's name of 'James Smith & Co. Ltd' is also present, as is the A/78 contract number.

The jacket is designed to fit a 37" - 39" chest well and when laid flat measures - 

Chest - 22 1/2"
Inside arm - 21"
Outside arm - 25 1/2"
Shoulders - 19"
Length - 30 1/2"

The smock is in good condition with plenty of signs of wear and use but is still very wearable. Overall it displays well and there are no serious flaws. Please study the pictures before purchasing and bear in mind that this is a vintage, pre-worn jacket. 

A good original 1960 pattern combat jacket with a nice clear label!clear label.