Original 1944 Dated British Army 1940 Pattern Battledress Blouse - 16

An original British Army 1940 Pattern (Austerity) Battledress Blouse dated 1944 and in a hard to find large size No. 16. 

This pattern of jacket was introduced in 1942 as an austerity pattern, replacing the earlier 1940 pattern which had a fly front and flapped pockets. This utility pattern has exposed buttons to the front and pockets which saved on time and materials. It also only has one internal pocket as opposed to the two seen on earlier battledress and is fitted with green plastic buttons as are commonly found from 1943 to 1945. 

The jacket is fitted with two red backed rank stars to each epaulette which denote the rank of lieutenant. There is also evidence of where a wing has been removed from above the left breast pocket. 

Inside the jacket the original label is still present and states the size as 16 and the maker's name as 'Montague Burton Ltd' of Leeds. The 1944 date is present as is the War Department broad arrow marking. As well as this there is a War Department acceptance stamp which is surmounted by the letter 'M' denoting 1944 as the year of issue. 

The tunic is designed to fit a 39" - 40" chest and when laid flat it measures - 

Chest - 22 1/2"
Inside arm - 19 1/2"
Outside arm - 25 1/2"
Shoulders - 17 1/2"
Length - 23"

The jacket is in good condition with no real signs of wear and use. Overall it is a very clean example which displays extremely well. It is a vintage, pre-owned item however so may have small flaws commensurate with age. 

A nice original wartime battledress jacket with a nice clear date and in a harder to find large size.     

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