Original 1939 Dated British Army Service Dress Tunic - Royal Engineers Attributed

An original 1939 dated British Army service dress tunic which belonged to 2085765 private Frederick Charles Sharpington who served with the Royal Engineers and the Home Guard during the Second World War. 

Sharpington was serving with 27 Anti-Aircraft Battalion Royal Engineers, a territorial battalion, in the immediate pre-war period before being relegated to class W T reserve in April of 1939 due to being too old. He then served with the Bracknell Home Guard. His Home Guard uniform and pre-war steel helmet are both listed separately and include some extra pictures of the original owner.

This pattern of tunic is the 5th modification of the 1902/07 pattern tunic which came into service with the British Army during 1918. It is now often referred to as the '1918 pattern' although more commonly called the 1922 pattern. The jacket is typical of those produced in the 1930s with an un-lined collar and very fitted cut. 

The tunic is made from the standard khaki coloured wool serge material which has a short pile nap to it which is typical of 1930s British Army serge. The tunic is fitted with brass general service buttons throughout (one missing) and Royal Engineers collar badges and shoulder titles. Sergeants stripes have been fitted to each sleeve which appear to be original to the uniform.

The interior features khaki coloured cotton drill material which is typical of the period. A First Field Dressing pocket is located to the skirt and the original label is still present to the interior. It bears the title of 'Jackets, Service Dress O.R.' as well as the maker's name of L. Silberston & Sons' of London. There is also a War Department acceptance stamp which is surmounted by the letter 'R' which denotes the year of 1939 as the year of issue. 

The overall condition of the tunic is good and it displays well. The serge has the 'wiry' feel which is typical of pre-war and early war British Serge items. There are signs of wear but there are no serious flaws or damage. There are however some small moth holes etc so 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. 

A very nice tunic from the pre-war tunic which would make an excellent addition to any British collection.

This is a vintage item which is 'sold as seen'