Vintage 1940s German Engelhorn & Sturm Goatskin Leather Car Coat

There’s a certain kind of jacket that carries its age without needing to show it off. This is one of them.

A rare surviving example of 1940s German leather outerwear, this Engelhorn & Sturm car coat is cut in supple forest green goatskin and follows the classic hip-length motoring style of the period. The design sits between leisurewear and practical driving dress, with a clean, structured shape and a balanced, wearable cut.

The goatskin is the defining feature. Naturally pebbled and softer than cowhide, it wears differently, developing depth across the surface while remaining supple and strong. Here, the leather has aged well, with a natural finish that reflects time without feeling tired or overworked.

The construction is straightforward and well judged. A shirt-style collar sits above a front zip closure, with a slanted chest pocket finished with a leather pull. Both are fitted with RiRi zippers, a high-quality Swiss maker used throughout Europe during the period. Slash pockets sit at the hips, while the waist is shaped with a self-belt and D-ring buckle. The back is finished with a lightly gathered, elasticated section, typical of 1940s loafer-style jackets, giving the coat its line without excess.

Inside, the jacket is fully lined in a tartan flannel in red, blue and mustard tones. The Engelhorn & Sturm label is present and clear. A small hand-repaired area to the lining near the hem remains visible, and to the left underarm lining, a sign of the jacket having been maintained and kept in use.

Engelhorn & Sturm, established in Mannheim in 1890, were known for producing practical, well-made garments. By the early 20th century they were already supplying motoring clothing, with Carl Benz noted among their customers. The business also survived the war directly. During one of the final Allied bombing raids on Mannheim in March 1945, the store was largely destroyed, yet trading resumed shortly after from the cellar. That continuity sits naturally behind a piece like this.

Condition

Very good vintage condition overall, consistent with age.

The goatskin remains supple and structurally sound throughout, with natural softening and fine creasing across the surface. The jacket holds its shape well, with no signs of weakness to the leather.

There is a small hand-repaired mend to the interior lining, along with general, even wear throughout. All hardware is present and functional.

This piece has been specialist cleaned and lightly conditioned in our workshop, carried out with restraint to preserve the original finish and character of the leather.

Key Details

• 1940s Engelhorn & Sturm leather car coat
• Made in Mannheim, Germany
• Forest green goatskin with natural pebbled grain
• RiRi zippers to front and chest pocket
• Shirt-style collar
• Slanted chest zip pocket with leather pull
• Slash hand pockets
• Self-belt with D-ring buckle
• Elasticated shirred back waist
• Tartan flannel lining with original label
• Specialist cleaned and conditioned in workshop

Garment Measurements (Laid Flat)

• Chest (armpit to armpit): 23"
• Shoulders (seam to seam): 19"
• Sleeve length (shoulder to cuff): 25.5"
• Sleeve length (underarm to cuff): 17.5"
• Back length (collar seam to hem): 31"

Best suited to a 42" chest. Please compare measurements with a similar garment to ensure an accurate fit.