Original 1940s French 'Canadienne' Barnstormer Mackinaw Jacket

This French leather Canadienne barnstormer coat dates to the 1940s, a time when coats like this were made to be relied upon rather than styled. These were practical garments, worn in exposed conditions by motorists, outdoor workers, and civilians who spent long hours in wind and cold. They were designed to be adjusted, closed down, and lived in.

The cut is long and double breasted, with a full waist belt that allows the coat to be drawn in against the weather. It follows the classic Canadienne form, built for protection rather than outline, with a weight and presence that feels purposeful when worn. This is not a refined or tailored piece. It is direct, functional, and grounded.

The leather carries a deep, uneven patina that has developed naturally over time. Surface wear is most noticeable across the lower front panels and along the arms, where the coat would have taken the brunt of daily use. These areas show scuffing and abrasion consistent with age, but the hide remains sound, holding its structure and weight without brittleness or weakness.

The coat fastens with its original wooden buttons, a clear period detail associated with wartime and immediate post war production. Their survival adds to the coat’s credibility and sense of age. At the neck, a working throat latch allows the collar to be secured closed. The collar itself is full and dense, retaining good volume and sitting comfortably whether worn open or fastened.

The front features slash hand warmer pockets and lower flapped pockets, arranged for practicality rather than symmetry. A shaped yoke across the shoulders adds strength through the upper body. The cuffs are finished with buttoned adjustment tabs, and inside the sleeves original internal storm cuffs remain in place, helping to seal out cold air. The exterior belt shows age related deterioration but remains present and usable.

Inside, there is no zip out liner. The internal construction is straightforward and robust, with seams remaining strong throughout, including areas of regular stress. Wear is evident, but the coat remains fully wearable and structurally secure.

This is an honest, original example of a French 1940s leather Canadienne barnstormer coat. It carries the marks of use without feeling compromised and works just as well as a display piece as it does as part of a considered wardrobe built around older, functional garments.

Condition and Preservation

The coat has been professionally cleaned to remove accumulated soiling, then finished using our in house leather conditioner to restore flexibility and support the hide over time. The process was carried out carefully, with no attempt to disguise age, alter the surface, or artificially improve appearance.

Condition is good for its age. The leather shows visible wear and patina in exposed areas but remains strong and stable. The belt shows deterioration consistent with long term use but continues to function as intended. The collar is full and well preserved. Stitching throughout the coat remains secure, and all buttons, fastenings, and adjustment points are intact and working.

Key Identifying Features

• French leather Canadienne barnstormer coat
• 1940s production
• Heavy leather with natural patina
• Original wooden buttons
• Double breasted front
• Working throat latch
• Internal storm cuffs
• Exterior waist belt
• Button adjustable cuffs
• Strong original construction

Garment Measurements (Laid Flat)

• Chest (armpit to armpit): 24"
• Shoulders (seam to seam): 20"
• Sleeve length (underarm to cuff): 17"
• Sleeve length (shoulder seam to cuff): 24.5"
• Back length (collar seam to hem): 33"

Best suited to a 42–44" chest depending on preferred fit. Please compare these measurements with a similar garment for accuracy.