*British, WW2, Army Leather Jerkin, Pattern No. 2, Khaki Serge Lined*
A good, complete example of the British Army Leather Jerkin, No. 2, standard issue throughout the Second World War. Constructed from heavy brown hide with a khaki wool serge lining, four brown composition buttons, and leather-reinforced buttonholes, this sleeveless over-garment was designed to provide warmth and weather resistance without restricting movement.
Approximate dimensions: 53 cm across the shoulders, 76 cm overall length.
Historical Note:
The jerkin was a much-valued garment in both World Wars, originally adopted in 1916 and reintroduced in 1939 in improved form. The No. 2 pattern, as seen here, used tanned leather faced internally with khaki wool serge, providing additional insulation and a less reflective surface. Worn over battledress, it was issued to troops of all branches—particularly drivers, engineers, and infantry—throughout the European and Mediterranean theatres. Its rugged practicality made it one of the most recognisable items of British wartime clothing, often seen in period photographs from D-Day to VE-Day.
*Condition*
This example shows honest service wear, with age-related creasing and scuffing to the leather, some moth damage, and material loss near the hem, and a few small holes to the lower rear section, consistent with field storage. The khaki wool serge lining remains intact with scattered small nicks and minor fraying at the edges. Most of the buttons are present and secure, one is broken, and the stitching remains sound overall. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
RQMBEXEO_6292216177
