Original 1939 Pattern Bournemouth Home Guard Greatcoat

An original 1939 pattern British Army greatcoat which belonged to a member of the 22nd (32nd) GPO Home Guard in Bournemouth. This unit was made up of post office employees and they were tasked with protecting GPO equipment. 

This pattern of greatcoat was introduced shortly before the start of the Second World War and was only made for a brief period before it was replaced with the 1940 pattern. It is made from a thick heavy serge blanket wool which is a khaki green colour. It features a double breasted front which fastens with brass king's crown general service buttons and epaulettes to the shoulders. The rear features a half belt and a vent to the skirt, both of which fasten with small GS buttons.  

The coat is fitted with original insignia which is period applied and has clearly always been on the coat. Standard printed 'Home Guard' shoulder titles are fitted to the top of each sleeve below which are the area and district titles of 'H' and '22' which denotes Bournemouth GPO Battalion. Below this is a signals white over blue diamond badge.

Inside the coat the original label is no longer present but the fact that it is a 1939 pattern dates it to being made prior to 1941. 

The coat is in good condition for its age with some signs of wear and use etc. There are areas of moth grazing etc which have been illustrated in the pictures. It displays well but is a vintage pre-worn item which has small flaws commensurate with age. Please take time to study the pictures before purchasing and bear in mind that it is a pre-worn vintage jacket which may have small flaws commensurate with age. 

A nice original Home Guard issued coat complete with its original insignia.