Original Swedish M1909 Livpäls Sheepskin Parka Overcoat - Size 2

An original Swedish Army M1909 Parka Overcoat dating from the first half of the 20th Century. 

These coats have become an iconic item today and have featured in numerous films and other places in popular culture. They are called 'Livpäls' by the Swedes which means a coat for life - and it certainly looks like it would last that long!

This is a much rarer coat than the later M1944 and are not often offered for sale today. They are notably different to the later model being white instead of grey. They also feature a wide variety of different furs to the interior made from various size pieces of material. This was done to save on wasting material but was not seen on the later coats. 

The outer of the coat is made from a white coloured cotton canvas which is a hard wearing, durable fabric. Patch pockets are fitted to the lower portion of the front of the coat and feature three button flaps which are typical of Swedish military items of this period. The front of the coat fastens with buttons and the cuffs feature a buttoning tab. All the buttons are cream coloured horn examples. Under each arm is an opening which acts as a vent. The interior of the coat features a thick pile sheepskin lining which will certainly keep you warm! To the reverse of the collar is a tab which allows the collar to be fastened around the neck for extra warmth. 

There is a single stamp inside the coat which bears the numeral '2' which relates to size. These coats are a very large item, designed to be worn over the top of an outfit. A size 2 roughly equates to a medium and when laid flat the coat measures - 

Chest - 25 1/2"
Inside arm - 18 3/4"
Outside arm - 26 1/4"
Shoulders - 20"
Length - 36 1/2"

When checking the measurements above it is important to take into account that the lining lining of the coat is very thick.

The coat is in good condition as can be seen in the pictures. It has some signs of wear and age with areas of discolouration to the exterior. There are numerous areas where the sheepskin is missing to the interior which is illustrated in the pictures and reflected in the price. Please take time to study the pictures before purchasing and bear in mind that this is a vintage, pre worn item which may have small flaws commensurate with age. 

An iconic coat, guaranteed to be warmer than anything else you own!