Vintage 1940s German Leather Motorcycle Dispatch Rider Jacket

The character of this German dispatch rider jacket is set immediately by its heavyweight dark green goatskin. Selected for strength, flexibility, and resistance to wear, the hide remains structurally sound throughout, holding its original form across the body and sleeves while remaining fully wearable. Surface wear is even and settled, presenting as natural creasing and gentle tonal variation developed through long-term use rather than damage. Stitching throughout remains solid and secure, maintaining the jacket’s integrity.

Made in Germany during the late 1940s to early 1950s, jackets of this type reflect the continuation of wartime motorcycle construction into the early post-war years. Intended for civilian riders who still required durability and protection, the design draws directly from the silhouettes and build methods developed during the war, resulting in a purposeful road jacket shaped by function rather than styling.

Internally, the original moleskin lining remains present, a hard-wearing fabric commonly used in German utilitarian garments of the period. The lining shows age-related wear consistent with use, with sympathetic hand-stitched repairs and small reinforcements at the points where the sleeves meet the body lining. These are known stress areas on jackets of this type and age. The repairs are confined entirely to the lining, do not pass through the outer leather, and remain stable and fully functional.

Original period hardware remains in place, including German zip fastenings that have been professionally serviced to ensure smooth and reliable operation. The belt and buckle are original to the jacket and remain sound, contributing to both fit and silhouette. Pocket construction, cuff straps, and fastenings remain intact and operational.

The jacket has been professionally cleaned and conditioned in-house using a preservation-led approach. No cosmetic reconstruction or unnecessary intervention has been carried out. The intention has been to present the jacket honestly, allowing its materials, age, and construction to remain clearly visible.

Presented in very good condition for its age, this is a sound and wearable example of a post-war German dispatch rider style jacket, suitable for continued use or long-term ownership.

Key Identifying Features

• Heavyweight dark green goatskin leather
• Late 1940s to early 1950s German production
• Post-war dispatch rider motorcycle design
• Original moleskin lining with period internal repairs
• Original belt and buckle fastening
• Period German zip hardware, professionally serviced
• Four-pocket road jacket configuration
• Adjustable cuff straps with original fastenings

Garment Measurements (Laid Flat)

• Chest (armpit to armpit): 22 inches
• Shoulders (seam to seam): 18 inches
• Sleeve length (shoulder seam to cuff): 27 inches
• Sleeve length (underarm seam to cuff): 16.5 inches
• Back length (collar seam to hem): 30 inches

Best suited to a 40 inch chest. Please compare measurements with a similar garment for accuracy.