Original Item: Only One Available.  The SS (Schutzstaffel - 'Protection Squadron') was originally formed in 1925, ostensibly to act as a small, loyal bodyguard unit to protect the Führer, Adolf H. Under the direction of the Reichsführer-SS Heinrich Himmler, the SS grew to be the most ruthless and feared organization of the 20th century. They were the vanguard of NSDAP and eventually controlled nearly every function of German life and much of Occupied Europe.

This is a very nice German World War Two SS Enlisted Man's M40 great coat or overcoat, constructed with an outer shell of heavy wool. No maker marks or stamps can be found on either the jacket or the painted pebbled buttons. The Eagle Sleeve insignia is a “hammerhead” style Waffen SS Enlisted man Sleeve Eagle. The insignia has faded slightly but is still in great condition without any thread fraying or coming loose. There are a few moth nips throughout the coat, but nothing major. There appears to be minor field repairs done to the coat, small tears hastily stitched up.

This is a great example of a genuine WWII SS wool greatcoat and would display fantastically.

The M40 Greatcoat was the standard issue winter uniform of the Wehrmacht and SS during the early stages of the Second World War. Following the invasion of the Soviet Union the Greatcoat was found to be insufficient for the Russian winter and they were replaced by more effective clothing.

Overcoats in various forms have been used by militaries since at least the late 18th century, and were especially associated with winter campaigns, such as Napoleon's Russian campaign. The full-length overcoat was once again popularised by the use during World War I of the trench coat.

Stereotypically, overcoats used by the army tended to be single-breasted, while navies often used double-breasted overcoats. Overcoats continued to be used as battle dress until the mid-1940s and 1950s, when they were deemed impractical. However, in colder countries, such as the former Soviet Union, they continue to be issued and used. When more efficient clothing and synthetic fibres became readily available, the overcoat began to be phased out even there.

Measurements
Collar to Shoulder: 12"
Shoulder to Sleeve: 26"
Shoulder to Shoulder: 19"
Chest Width: 16"
Waist Width: 16"
Front Length: 52"