Rare Original Great War RAF Pilots Tunic - 206 Squadron

A fantastic and very rare Great War officer's service dress tunic which belonged to a pilot of the Royal Flying Corps.

This tunic belonged to Lieutenant Herbert Hickson who flew with 206 Squadron as a DH9 Pilot on the Western Front in 1918. Hickson graduated from Central Flying School on the 14th of February 1918 before going out to the Western Front. He joined No. 206 Squadron which was formed on December 31st 1916 as No. 6 Squadron, Royal Naval Air Service. This was a fighter unit operating Nieuport 17s and later, Sopwith Camels over the Western Front before disbanding on August 27th 1917. The squadron was reformed on January 1, 1918 as a bomber and reconnaissance unit, operating Airco DH9s. With the establishment of the RAF in April 1918 the squadron was renumbered No. 206 Squadron, RAF and was used for photo-reconnaissance in support of the British Second Army and for bombing support during the Allies final offensive. Following the Armistice, it was used to operate an air mail service for the British occupying army in Germany, before being deployed to Helwan, Egypt in June 1919. It was renumbered as 47 Squadron on February 1, 1920.

The tunic is typical of those made during the Great War being made from a khaki green coloured whipcord wool. Like all British officer's tunics from this period it is cut with a narrow shoulder displacement and a long skirt, as was fashionable during the Edwardian period. The jacket also features a central seam which is another common trait of jackets from this period. Brass Royal Flying Corps buttons are fitted throughout and two rank stars are fitted to each shoulder. Pleated pockets are located to the chest whilst large bellows pockets are located to the skirt. A very attractive RFC pattern pilot's wing is fitted above the left breast pocket and would suggest that the tunic was made and worn prior to the 1st of April when the RFC became the RAF. Many pilots tried to retain their RFC insignia in 1918 as it marked them out as a veteran who had been flying for some time. There are also three blue coloured overseas stripes fitted to the lower portion of the right sleeve which denote three years service abroad. 

Inside the jacket features a full lining and a single interior pocket. There is a hanging loop at the neck, below which is the original tailors label. The details are written in Indian ink which has faded over time but the original owner's name of 'Lieutenant H. Hickson' is still visible. 

The tunic is in good condition overall and displays very well. There are numerous small flaws which are all illustrated in the pictures but on the whole it is a very nice example, especially considering that it is over 100 years old! Please take time to study the pictures before purchasing and bear in mind that it is a vintage, pre-worn item which may have small flaws commensurate with age. 

The tunic also comes complete with Hickson's original leather Sam Browne belt which is also in good condition and a nice addition to the tunic. Please note that the shirt and tie shown in some of the pictures are for display purposes only and not included. 

A very nice original RFC tunic with some great history. This would make a great addition to any First World War collection without a doubt!

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