Other ranks greatcoat : Australian Army

Place Oceania: Australia
Accession Number REL37651
Collection type Heraldry
Object type Uniform
Physical description Cotton twill, Plastic, Wool
Maker Commonwealth Government Clothing Factory
Place made Australia, Australia: Victoria, Melbourne
Date made 1930
Conflict Period 1930-1939
Army organisation period 1930-1942
Description

Other ranks khaki wool double-breasted greatcoat with shoulder straps secured by two large plastic buttons. There are two pairs of holes in the shoulder straps, possibly from badges that have been removed. The coat tapers to a single breasted cut below the waist. Cuffs have been folded deeply and stitched in place. The front of the coat is secured by two pairs of four large khaki plastic buttons angled towards the centre (six are missing). Sloping inset pockets with straight flaps are positioned on both sides. Two ferrous hook and eye closures secure the coat at the throat. The left side seam has a small opening in it for a bayonet with an internal pointed buttoned flap. Two welt pockets have been inserted inside the left front: the upper one is vertical, and the lower one horizontal. The pockets are lined with cotton drill. Along the left inside front are three plastic buttons to secure the coat. Two fabric tabs with pointed ends have been attached to the inside left facing on the lower half of the coat. These fasten with corresponding buttons on the right front. The rear of the coat has an inverted box pleat to the waist and an adjustable self-fabric belt with four plastic buttons (one missing) which is worn around the back. There is a single placketed back vent 560mm long with two concealed buttons (missing). The coat is half lined with polished brown cotton twill with a long inverted pleat from the neck to the top of the vent. The sleeves are fully lined with the same material. A makers label is stitched to the rear lining under the collar with. 'C.G.C.F/AUSTRALIA/1930/D (broad arrow) D' printed in black ink. A smaller label underneath has REGIMENTAL NUMBER / NAME printed in black ink, and PLACE handwritten in red capital letters.

History / Summary

This greatcoat was found in a charity shop and its provenance is unknown. The pattern, which dates from the Australian Army militia period between 1930 and 1942, differs slightly from the earlier First World War pattern which was issued until the end of the 1920s.