German M43 Greatcoat by Richard Underwood Militaria

The German wool greatcoat or overcoat like other German uniforms went through a few changes in WW2, some changes where made to improve the design most where to make the manufacture easier, cheaper and quicker. The Greatcoat was no exception, by 1943 the greatcoat had a larger collar so when it was worn up around the face it would give better protection from the elements. The colour had changed to the darker grey/green colour same as the M43 wool uniform.

The M43 greatcoat by Richard Underwood Militaria features:

• Double breasted deign with two rows of 6 metal buttons.
• Metal buttons have a pebble design finish and are painted.
• Metal hook and eye fastener at the neck.
• Larger collars than on previous Greatcoats.
• Under the collar there is a tab and button so it can be fastened up around the face.
• Single inside breast pocket.
• Two hip pockets covered with slanted flaps.
• Small slits for the belt hooks on the tunic to fit through on each side seam just above the hip pockets. This was so the equipment belt could still be supported when wearing webbing over the greatcoat.
• Inside is part lined with dark grey cotton (top half only).
• Sleeves have deep "French" cuffs.
• Half belt on the back with two buttons for adjustment.
• Gusseted seam to allow for better movement in the centre of the back from the half belt to the base of the neck.
• Below the half belt the greatcoat has a cut seam which is fastened closed by four resin buttons.
• Includes Army Infantry shoulder boards.
• Long length (finishes about mid calf).
• Darker grey/green colour typical of late war clothing.