Germany, SS. A Waffen-SS EM/NCO’s Greatcoat

(Waffen-SS Mantel für Mannschaften). A very well-preserved Waffen-SS EM/NCO’s greatcoat, constructed of smooth field-grey wool. It features a high collar constructed of forest-green wool, the reverse of which features a detachable field-grey wool strap meeting three grey bakelite buttons, allowing for optional closure modification. The right shoulder retains a pebbled magnetic metal button for the accommodation of a shoulder board, while the left shoulder bears a bronze base for an analogous button. The cuff of each sleeve is rolled up to a depth of 155 mm, with the left cuff held in place by a piece of machine stitching. A single pocket is located at the side of each breast flap, opening with a reinforced horizontal flap. Each breast flap bears a row of six pebbled magnetic metal buttons meeting an equal number of reinforced buttonholes on the opposite side. The exterior features complete with dual reverse straps, with the right strap bearing dual pebbled magnetic metal buttons meeting an equal number of reinforced buttonholes on the left strap, allowing for a customizable fit. All buttons on the greatcoat are maker marked on the reverse with “OVERHOFF & CIE”, along with the Lüdenscheid-based firm’s logo. The interior of the greatcoat features a complete dark grey rayon liner, with a single interior pocket located at the upper left breast flap, as well as a reinforced slit on the same flap for the accommodation of a dagger hanger. Two integrated grey cotton loops are stitched into the armpits, with an additional suspension loop located at the back of the collar. The interior features complete with a bronze hook on the right of the collar meeting an analogous loop of identical constructed on the left, allowing for a flush fit with the wearer’s neck. It is unmarked and measures approximately 495 mm across the shoulders, with an arm length of 640 mm, and an overall length of 1300 mm. It demonstrates some exterior material fatigue consistent with age, use, and moth exposure. It also demonstrates the removal of insignia, including both shoulder boards (with the left button cap missing) and an eagle on the upper left arm. The greatcoat is in an overall better than very fine condition.