Rare Original 1942 Dated ATS Leather Jerkin

A rare original 1942 Dated Auxiliary Territorial Service leather jerkin in good condition. 

This pattern of leather jerkin was produced specifically for the ATS during the Second World War. This example is the first pattern which was produced throughout the war before being replaced by a simplified version in 1945. Proportionally it is different to the men's version being longer in the body. It also features darts at the top which run down towards the chest and most notably has a rear belt. 

The jerkin is made from a brown coloured leather and features a four button front which fastens the same way around as most women's items. The interior is lined with a khaki green coloured wool material to which the original label was originally affixed. It is no longer present but there is clear evidence of where it was originally attached. There is also a War Department acceptance stamp to the interior. It is hard to read but appears to be surmounted by the letter 'O' which confirms 1942 as the year of manufacture. The original owner has also added their name to the interior which reads 'Sims'. 

The jerkin is designed to fit a 36" to 38" bust (over jacket) and when laid flat it measures - 

Chest - 21 1/2"
Shoulders - 16"
Length at rear - 29 1/2"

The jerkin is in good condition for its age and displays well. It looks to still be wearable and all of the stitching appears to be strong. There are various areas of crazing and some small nicks etc to the leather which can be seen in the pictures. There are also some hand stitched repairs to the left shoulder as illustrated in picture 11. It is far from perfect and has been issued and worn and has some small flaws commensurate with this. Please take time to study the pictures before purchasing as this is a vintage, pre-worn item. 

A hard to find piece of women's clothing from the Second World War with a good wartime date.