Rare Original 1944 Dated British Army Tank Suit - Size 3

An original 1944 Dated 'Oversuits, Tank Crews' as worn by various armoured units in the later part of the Second World War.

These suits 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'. Whilst production carried on in the post-war period, this suit is a scarce wartime manufactured example. Typical traits of wartime suits are the brass 'D. O. T.' zippers which fasten the front and the chocolate brown buttons used to secure the chest flap behind these. The original brace straps are still present to the interior and have not been removed as is often found with these suits. The original waist belt is also present which again is often missing. 

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 No. 3’ which will fit up to a 36-38” chest and a 32” waist. The 1944 date is present as is the War Department broad arrow marking. 

The condition of the overall is good as can be seen in the pictures. It displays nicely and could certainly still be worn but it does have a number of period repairs, mainly to the rear. These are detailed in the pictures and add some nice character to the suit. 

All in all a nice original suit with a hard to find wartime date. This would make a fine addition to any collection and is a must have for anyoe interested in armoured units who served in North West Europe in 1944 and 1945.