Original 1940 Dated 1939 Pattern British Army Greatcoat - Home Guard

 An original 1940 dated British Army 1939 pattern dismounted greatcoat which appears to have belonged to a member of the Home Guard.

This pattern was introduced in time to be widely issued to the BEF in France and later troops and Home Guard units, but was superseded by the 1940 pattern (dismounted) greatcoat making them hard to find today.

The coat is made from the standard khaki coloured heavy serge blanket wool used throughout WW2. The tell-tale sign of a 1939 pattern greatcoat is the straight rear seam - the 1940 pattern has an inverted box pleat in place of this. The front of the jacket is fitted with original brass King's crown general service buttons as well as small examples to the half belt and the rear vent. There is evidence of where badges have been fitted to the top of each sleeve which would indicate it was used by the Home Guard.

Inside the coat the original label is still present but is faded out and no longer legible. There is however a War Department acceptance stamp which is surmounted by the letter 'Q' which denotes 1940 as the year of issue. The original owner has also marked his name which reads 'O. Miller'. 

The coat will suit a 38" - 39" Chest and when laid flat it measures - 

Chest - 22 3/4"
Inside arm - 19"
Outside arm - 26"
Shoulders - 17 1/4"
Length - 49"

This greatcoat is in good condition for its age with no serious flaws or signs of undue wear. It displays very well and is still very wearable but please take time to study the pictures and bear in mind that this is a vintage, pre-owned item which may have small flaws commensurate with age. 

A rare example of an early war greatcoat in good condition and with a nice clear date.