Germany, SS. An 18th SS Volunteer Panzergrenadier Division “Horst Wessel” Unterscharführer’s M43 Tropical Field Blouse

(Feldbluse M43 für Unterscharführer der 18. SS-Freiwilligen-Panzergrenadier-Division „Horst Wessel“). An extremely well-preserved M43 tropical field blouse for an Unterscharführer of the 18th SS Volunteer Panzergrenadier Division “Horst Wessel”, constructed of an olive-drab cotton twill. It features an integrated dark green wool collar, fully trimmed with a machine-embroidered silver aluminum wire tresse. The collar is flanked on each side by tabs, both constructed of black wool. The right tab bears a machine-embroidered silver-grey regimental insignia in the form of a Sturmabteilung (SA) logo, while the left tab is pinned with a single silvered bronze rank pip. Each shoulder bears a strap constructed of black wool with a grey wool reverse, trimmed with light green piping indicating recruitment and reserve personnel, and bordered by silver aluminum wire tresses. Each strap is secured to the blouse by an integrated reverse strap set through a loop emanating from the blouse at the outer edge, and by a pebbled magnetic metal button on the inner edge. Stitched onto the cuff of the left arm is a title constructed of woven black rayon, trimmed with machine-embroidered silver grey piping, and bearing an inscription of “HORST WESSEL” of identical construction. The title measures 30 mm in width and is secured to the sleeve by rows of machine stitching along both the top and bottom edges. Each breast flap features two pockets, all opening with horizontal flaps with reinforced buttonholes meeting pebbled magnetic metal buttons. Pinned to the blouse above the upper left pocket is a medal ribbon bar featuring a War Merit Cross with Swords, measuring 25 mm (w). Emanating from each side of the blouse are bronze belt hooks. The unlined interior presents fully plain. It measures approximately 450 mm across the shoulders, with an arm length of 550 mm and an overall body length of 655 mm. While well-preserved, the blouse displays some issues consisting with age and use, including loss of finish to the buttons, exterior soiling (particularly near the breast buttonholes, and minor material fatigue. It is in an overall near extremely fine condition.

Footnote: From the collection of George Petersen.