Original 1967 Dated British Army Winter Tank Suit - Size 1

An original 'Oversuit, Tank Temperate, Without Hood' in a size 1 and dated 1967.

This pattern of tank suit was worn by various armoured units in the later part of the Second World War and during the post-War period. They were issued to British Troops in the winter of 1944-45 to a variety of armoured units and feature heavily in photographs of the period. They were often referred to as 'Zoot Suits' at the time and in the post-war years as the 'Pixie Suit'. They also saw issue post-war and manufacture carried on at intervals; with this suit being an example. The pattern did not change after the Second World War and this later example is almost identical to wartime manufacture. This example being dated 1967 is almost certainly from the last contract produced. 

The suit is typical of tank suits and features the original manufacturer's label in the right hand sleeve. It states the size as ‘Size 1’ which will fit up to a 34” chest, a 30” waist and a height of 5'4". The label features the manufacturers name 'Cookson & Clegg Ltd', the 1967 date and the War Department broad arrow marking.

The suit features ‘NZ’ brand zippers to the front which are typical of British military clothing from this period and they function well. The square shaped zip pullers are about the only difference between this suit and a wartime produced example. The waist belt fastens with a steel buckle of the same design used on wartime battledress jackets.

The overall condition of the suit is very good. It has a bright, fresh appearance and looks to have seen only extremely limited use. Whilst there are a couple of very small stains and marks etc the suit really is nice and displays very well. The press stud which fastens the riht hand upper map pocket is missing the male side of the fastener but this does not affect the way it displays. Please take time to study the pictures before purchasing as this is a vintage, pre-owned item. 

All in all a nice original suit in good fantastic condition. This would make a good addition to a collection or could suit a re-enactor.