NAMED WW1 GREAT COAT poss RFC OFFICER

A genuine First World War British officer’s private‑purchase greatcoat, tailored by Hicks & Sons, London, one of the premier outfitters supplying officers during the war. The original maker’s label is present and clearly inscribed “Lieut F. M. Leader”, with Hicks order number 63667, dating the coat firmly to late 1916–1917.  The 9/15 is just a tailor’s internal notation (fitting/delivery/batch). Hicks never wrote years on private‑purchase labels.

Constructed in heavy khaki wool with thick blanketing lining — this was a mid‑war upgrade introduced for officers serving in exposed conditions, including RFC airfields and forward areas.

Approx. 36" chest, medium height typical of a young junior officer.  The nape to waist is 21"  Nape to hem 40"

Features:

Double‑breasted front / reversible buttoning / storm fastening

Short skirted

Large notched lapels

Heavy blanket lining (correct mid‑war type)

Original stitching and lining

Private purchase quality

Named provenance

No modern alterations

On research I drew up A Short List of Possible Officers Named F. M. Leader:

Only three WW1 officers match the initials and surname

Frederick M. Leader – strongest match (Who was an Army → RFC transfer)

Francis M. Leader – Territorial possibility

Frank M. Leader – least likely (cavalry/Yeomanry)

So The coat’s date, size, lining, and private‑purchase nature strongly support Frederick M. Leader, who fits the typical Army‑to‑RFC transfer pattern of 1916–17.

This is A rare named WW1 officer’s coat with excellent research potential. Ideal for collectors of British militaria, RFC/RAF history, or museum display.

There is some surface moth and tiny moth holes. 4 are on the top left sleeve and a small one on the rear right skirt.   On the underside of both sleeve cuffs there is rubbing wear and there are no buttons. And on the side pocket flap to both sides the lining is worn But in all in good condition considering the age.  

But as I have stated before further research is needed