Vintage 1940s Wehrmacht German Goatskin Leather Trench Coat

Leather trench coats of this type were privately purchased by German officers during the late 1930s and throughout the Second World War. While regulations governed issued uniforms, coats such as this were commissioned independently and favoured for their protection, material quality, and authoritative appearance. Examples appear across period imagery associated with the Wehrmacht and Luftwaffe, where leather outerwear formed part of an officer’s working dress rather than ceremonial uniform.

This coat follows established Ledermantel conventions, with a longline cut, broad lapels, and a disciplined silhouette shaped by function. It is constructed from substantial goatskin, weighing approximately 3.7 kg, chosen for its durability, flexibility, and resistance to hard wear. Over time, the leather has developed a settled patina with natural creasing and surface variation that reflects age and use without compromising structure. The coat retains strong presence throughout the body and sleeves.

Construction details are consistent with higher grade private purchase examples. A belted waist with a matching leather covered buckle allows the coat to be drawn in, while a high fastening throat latch provides protection against wind and weather. A pointed rear yoke defines the shoulders and reinforces the upper back. The sleeves are fitted with adjustable cuff straps, secured by small buckles with D-rings, a practical wartime feature designed to tighten the cuffs over gloves.

Inside, the coat retains its original tartan check lining. This is an uncommon choice compared to the plainer cotton or rayon linings more frequently encountered in German military coats and strongly suggests private purchase or custom tailoring. The lining remains intact, with some marks toward the lower interior consistent with age. Evidence of earlier stitching and repairs is present, along with light wear expected of a garment of this age. These details reflect maintenance over time rather than neglect.

The coat has been professionally cleaned and conditioned using specialist processes appropriate for heritage leather. This has ensured the goatskin remains stable and wearable while preserving its original surface character. No attempt has been made to remove signs of age or alter the coat’s historical integrity.

Overall, this is a sound and historically credible example of a late 1930s to mid-1940s German private purchase leather trench coat, valued for its materials, construction, and well preserved character.

Key Identifying Features

• Late 1930s to mid-1940s German private purchase leather trench coat
• Heavy goatskin construction, approximately 3.7 kg
• Broad lapels and longline Ledermantel silhouette
• Belt with matching leather covered buckle
• High fastening throat latch
• Pointed rear yoke
• Adjustable cuff straps with buckles and D-rings
• Original tartan check lining
• Mature patina with honest age-related wear

Garment Measurements (Laid Flat)

• Chest armpit to armpit: 22.5 inches
• Shoulders seam to seam: 18 inches
• Sleeve length shoulder seam to cuff: 27.5 inches
• Back length collar seam to hem: 45.5 inches

Best suited to approximately a 42 regular fit. Please compare with a similar coat for accuracy.