Rare 1944 Dated Original British Made US Enlisted Men's Mackinaw Coat

A scarce original British made M-1943 'Coats, Mackinaw, Enlisted Men' dated 1944 which is an extra large size.

This pattern of coat was the third model of Mackinaw to be produced and is distinctly different to the earlier models as it has a notched collar and no waist belt. It was produced in the U.K from early 1943 and was replaced in 1945 with the M1943 combat jacket.

This example is a rare British made example which is made from a high quality Egyptian cotton twill rather than the lighter domestic cotton duck used for those produced in America. It is a notably deeper colour and the buttons are also different to the American made examples. Two large flapped pockets are located to the skirt and the wrists feature a button and tab detail. 

The inside of the jacket is fully lined creating a double layer. The original British label is still present and is bright and legible. It bears the title of 'Coat Mackinaw O.D. Enlisted Men' below which is the US E.T.O specification number of U/1463A. It states the size as 44 and bears the maker's name of 'Hirst & Thackway Ltd'. The War Department broad arrow marking is also present as is the 1944 date.

The coat is designed to fit a 44" chest but will easily fit up to a 46" and potentially larger. When laid flat it measures - 

Chest - 26 1/2"
Inside arm - 17"
Outside arm - 26"
Shoulders - 20"
Length - 33"

The coat is in very good condition with signs of wear and use. There are no serious flaws or damage and the outer shell is in good condition for its age with a grubby patina. There is some wear around the fold of the collar as illustrated in picture 8. The condition is good on the whole but please take time to study the pictures and bear in mind that this is a vintage, pre-owned item which may have very small flaws commensurate with age. 

A fantastic example of a rare British made coat. Not only that but it is a hard to find large size!