Germany, SS. A SS-Totenkopfverbände Unterscharführer’s M37 Tunic

(Feldbluse für Unterscharführer der SS-Totenkopfverbände). A very well-preserved M37 tunic for an Unterscharführer of the SS-Totenkopfverbände, constructed of a light field-grey cotton blend in a herringbone weave. The tunic features a collar transitioning into fold-back lapels, with the former fully trimmed with a machine-embroidered silver-grey tresse. Flanking the collar are tabs, each constructed of black wool and measuring 35 mm (w) x 45 mm (l). The right tab bears a machine-embroidered silver-grey Totenkopf in an early vertical style, while the left tab is pinned with a single silvered bronze rank pip. Each shoulder features an integrated loop and magnetic metal button for the accommodation of shoulder straps, with the buttons bearing reverse Reichszeugmeisterei (RZM) logo and codes “M5/236” for Arno Tempel & Co., Oppach. Stitched onto the upper left arm is an insignia consisting of a black wool backer bearing a machine-embroidered silver-grey SS-style German national eagle clutching a wreathed mobile swastika, measuring 85 mm (w) x 40 mm (h). The cuff of each sleeve is rolled up to a depth of 125 mm and secured in place at the back with a machine-stitched seam. Each breast flap features two pockets, all opening with horizontal flaps bearing reinforced buttonholes, in turn meeting pebbled magnetic material buttons. All pocket buttons are similarly marked on the reverse with the RZM code of Arno Tempel & Co. Four sets of three vertically-arranged reinforced eyelets are distributed around the waistband for the accommodation of optional belt hooks. The tunic closes with four magnetic metal buttons on the right flap meeting an equal number of reinforced buttonholes on the left flap. All of the breast buttons are marked on the reverse with RZM code “M5/8” for F.W. Assmann & Söhne, Lüdenscheid, along with the firm’s logo. The interior is plain with the exception of a narrow pocket at the lower right breast flap, as well as four integrated side straps, each with six reinforced eyelets. Fully unmarked, the tunic measures approximately 460 mm across the shoulders, with an arm length of 580 mm and overall body length of 680 mm. While very well-preserved, it demonstrates some issues consistent with age and use, including minor soiling and material fatigue to the exterior, as well as removal of the shoulder straps. The tunic is in an overall near extremely fine condition.