Original 1943 Dated ATS Service Dress Tunic

An original British Auxiliary Territorial Service tunic in good condition and dated 1943. 

This pattern of tunic was introduced in 1941 and replaced the earlier pattern introduced when the ATS was formed in 1938. It is essentially an economy pattern of the early tunic featuring plain patch pockets and simplified pocket flaps to the chest and a full waist belt which improved the fit of the jacket. 

The tunic retains its original belt with brass waist buckle and is fitted with brass Kings crown general service buttons. Brass ATS shoulder titles are fitted to each epaulette and one features a red cotton tape backing. It is possible that the other shoulder also had one of these but it has since been removed. A Royal Army Service Corps collar badge is fitted above the left breast pocket which denotes that the original owner was attached to the corps. 

Inside the tunic the original label is no longer present but the War Department acceptance stamp is, and can be found to the sleeve lining. It is surmounted by the letter 'N' which denotes 1943 as the year of issue. 

The original owner has added a name tag to the neck which may offer the prospect of further research. It reads W/298720 B. Reynolds' and is undoubtedly a period addition. 

The tunic is a small size and when laid flat it measures - 

Chest - 17 1/2"
Waist - 14"
Inside arm - 16 1/4"
Outside arm - 22 3/4"
Shoulders - 14 1/2"
Length - 25"

The tunic is in good condition with some signs of wear and age. There is a moth nip to the left sleeve as shown in the picture . Overall it displays well but please take time to study the pictures before purchasing and bear in mind that this is a pre-worn, vintage jacket with some flaws.  

A good original wartime example with original insignia.