WW1 British Sergeant Observer Tunic - Dated 1915

A very interesting WW1 British 1902 Pattern Tunic to Sergeant Observer, nicely dated 1915.

The Tunic is the standard other ranks issue type however with some “smart" modifications tailored in that are typical of WW1 NCO’s wishing to show their status.

The usual soft stand and fall collar has been stiffened and re-tailored to stand upright, the breast pocket flaps have been “scalloped” to emulate those of an officer, and pointed cuffs have similarly been added to each sleeve. The Tunic has then been taken in at the sides and the spare cotton lining material from this re-used to line the collar.

The lining is the classic cream/beige cotton drill of 1915 produced tunics with then to the inside left a lovely paper sizing label confirming 1915 manufacture, this alongside a good wartime War Department stamp on the drill lining. Where the belt hooks to the side have been moved a new piece of lining in the white cotton typical of 1918 has been applied, this showing the re-tailoring of the tunic probably occurred that year.

On the left breast is a superb WW1 Observer’s wing  with each of the feathers beautifully picked out in ginger silk thread. Below that is the red/white/blue campaign medal ribbon of the 1915 Star.

To each upper sleeve is a good wartime set of Sergeant stripes with then to the lower right cuff five blue chevrons showing overseas service from 1915 to1919.

No other insignia has ever been applied.

Overall condition is very good with one moth hole at the bottom front right side, partially obscured when the Tunic is closed. In addition, there perhaps five or six moth nips, too small to photograph.

An excellent example.