Original WW2 British Army 1940 Pattern (Austerity) Battledress Blouse - Size 6

An original British Army 1940 Pattern (Austerity) Battledress Blouse which is a size No. 6 and dates from the Second World War. 

This example appears to be a mid-war produced jacket from 1942. It was issued and worn before going to the R.S.D, or resupply depot, where it was reconditioned ready to be issued to another soldier. This is denoted by the label being positioned in the waistband which is a trait of these jackets. There is an anti-vesicant stamp with the date of October 1944 which is most likely around the time of re-issue making this an authentic, wartime used jacket. 

This pattern of jacket was introduced in 1942 and was issued on a large scale throughout the rest of the Second World War and into the immediate post-war period. This example is made from the standard khaki green coloured serge wool material used during this period. It is fitted with brown coloured vegetable ivory (plastic) buttons which would suggest it was mostly likely made in 1942. The breast pocket buttons have been changed for revolving shank buttons, either by the original owner or when it underwent reconditioning. A chromium plated metal waist belt buckle, both of which are common features to find on Battledress dating from this period. 

Inside the jacket there is evidence of where the original label was stitched to the breast pocket although it was removed during the reconditioning process. A second label has been fitted to the waistband which is the RSD label. This is washed out with no details legible. There is however a size stamp which denotes the jacket as a size 6. 

The jacket is in well worn condition as can be seen in the photographs. There are numerous small flaws which are illustrated in the pictures and reflected in the price. Please take time to study the pictures and bear in mind that it is a vintage, pre-owned jacket with some issues commensurate with age. 

A nice original battledress jacket which was used during WW2.   

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