Original 1943 Dated 1940 Pattern Austerity Battledress Blouse Size 16

An original British Army 1940 Pattern (Austerity) Battledress Blouse dated 1943 and in a hard to find large size No. 16. 

This pattern of jacket was introduced in 1942 as an austerity pattern, replacing the earlier 1940 pattern which had a fly front and flapped pockets. This utility pattern has exposed buttons to the front and pockets which saved on time and materials. It also only has one internal pocket as opposed to the two seen on earlier battledress and is fitted with green plastic buttons as are commonly found from 1943 to 1945. 

Inside the jacket the original label is still present and states the size as 16 and the makers name as 'Harry Levene Ltd' of London. The 1943 date is present as is the War Department broad arrow marking. As well as this there is a War Department acceptance stamp which is surmounted by the letter 'M' denoting 1944 as the year of issue. 

The jacket is in good condition with no real signs of wear and use. There is some minor moth damage which is detailed in the pictures. This does not overly detract from the jacket and is only noticeable on close inspection. 

A nice original wartime battledress jacket with a nice clear date and in a harder to find large size.