Code: 10495
WW2 RAF IRVIN SHEEPSKIN FLYING JACKET - PAINTED SQUADRON BADGE. A nice, used and aged example of an early to mid-war multi-panel Irvin flying jacket, as used by nearly all RAF airmen during WW2. Interestingly, this example has had a painted emblem added to the left breast of the jacket. But sadly, we have not been able to identify this. It could be a squadron crest or an ATC unit marking; we just can't quite tell. There is definitely a crown, then a red ring around a yellow circle, with what we believe does look like a green fist in the middle. Just below the emblem is also a painted letter "N" in green, once again unsure of the significance, this could relate to an aircrew role, such as a navigator, or could simply be an initial. Once again, no provenance came with the jacket, but regardless, it's still a lovely early jacket that does display very well. Interestingly, the jacket also has an added pocket inside the jacket, which has been made from a section of an RAF leather flying gauntlet. Possibly added to hold some maps, rations or some other supplies. A really nice personalised modification, added by the original wearer.
As mentioned, a nice aged and used example, it has some wear, most noticeably the jacket does have some sheepskin losses, to the waist and cuffs, and some light mothing to the fur collar. All zips are, however, very nice, and in good working order, running freely. All are also nicely maker marked by Lightning, very common to see on this type of jacket, please see the photos. The main zip with the original leather pull tab. The sheepskin leather itself shows some wear, still retaining a nice dark brown finish, with no rips, tears, splits, or burst seams we can see. The collar is again in good condition, with the elastic collar strap, closure strap, and buckle still in place and all in good condition. The waist buckle and strap have suffered somewhat, with some losses and cracking to the leather. We can see signs of where this leather has been stabilised and glued in the past.
Inside the sheepskin is again in good used condition, with no losses to the fur we can see. The jacket is unfortunately missing its original label. We have taken the following measurements to help with sizing.
The measurements for the jacket are:
Chest: 22 inches across
Waist: 22 inches across
Armpit to cuff: 20 inches
Shoulder to cuff: 23.5 inches
Neck to bottom hem: 23 inches
Overall, a really nice original wartime Irvin jacket, it does display very well on a mannequin, it must be said, and looks to be a good medium size. It is ideal for any RAF display, collection, or museum.
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