Stunning 1944 Dated WAAF Leather Jerkin

A fantastic original Women's Auxiliary Air Force leather jerkin which dates from 1944. 

This started life as an ATS economy pattern leather jerkin which made its way into the hands of a WAAF who changed the buttons and added a collar from a sidcot suit. This type of conversion is typical of those seen in North West Europe in the winter of 1944-45 which could mean the original owner served overseas. 

The jerkin is made from a brown coloured leather and is lined with a khaki green colour wool. The most distinguishing feature of the ladies pattern of jerkin when compared to the men's is that it buttons the other way. It is also notably smaller proportainly. It is the economy pattern so does not feature a rear belt and the original front buttons have been changed for brass King's crown RAF examples. The original owner has added a fur collar from a Sidcot flying suit which is not an uncommon modification to find. Grey coloured plastic buttons have been fitted around the neck to which the collar is fastened. 

The Air Ministry stamp is still visible to the inside face of the collar at the neck. There is also evidence of where the original issue label was affixed inside the jerkin and there is a War Department acceptance stamp which is surmounted by the letter 'M' which denotes 1944 as the year of issue. The letters 'SMT' have been painted inside which may relate to motor transport. The original owner has also added a hanging loop near the neck. 

The jerkin is a smaller size which is intended to fit a woman. When laid flat it measures - 

Chest - 20 1/2"
Shoulders - 16 1/2"
Length at rear - 28"

The jerkin is in good condition with some signs of wear and use. There is a small section where the stitching has come away at the shoulder as illustrated in the pictures. Aside from this it displays well with no serious flaws or damage but 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 issues commensurate with age. 

A fantastic original period modified ladies jerkin!