This example appears to have been owned by a soldier of Grenadier Regiment Prinz Karl von Preussen (2.Brandenburgisches) No.12, judging by the shoulder straps. Whether these were added away from the front or post war, I am unsure but have read that it was unusual for them to remain fitted to the coat during service. The coat is heavily soiled and well used condition with a little moth damage in areas. Stamped with what looks like a size 62 stamp and 1917 depot inspection stamp which may be a second stamp. However, I believe this example to have been made prior to 1917 as the rear belt openings are made of leather, rather than cloth as in the 1917 manufactured coat. Having said that I am not aware of the date that the directive for a change was formally issued. In hand, the wool of the coat is field grey in colour with the sage green cloth collar indicating it being Prussian. Size adjustment straps are located in the rear with 6 brown painted crowned buttons closing off the coat to the front.
The coat is twice named in purple ink in the rear interior, however there are two names that are the same and one that is different suggesting two owners. Still learning about these, so any information or feedback is very welcome.
The acquisition of this item brings me a step closer to completing my Imperial German soldier mannequin and has been one of those pickups that really gets you excited.
Andy
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