Born from necessity and perfected by environment, the Swedish Army M1909 parka was designed to withstand one of the harshest climates on earth. Sweden’s winters are not simply cold, they are punishing and this coat was built for survival in those conditions. The M1909 became a national standard, crafted with the same ethos of durability and precision that produced Sweden’s legendary Volvos and Saabs: if it could endure there, it could endure anywhere.
Produced under government contract through regional suppliers — most notably Mats Larsson of Malung, Sweden’s historic leather working centre, the M1909 was manufactured to a strict military specification. Each coat bore the Swedish Army’s three-crown insignia, a mark of quality and state approval. Constructed from a densely woven cotton canvas outer and a full sheepskin lining, the coat is so substantial it can almost stand on its own. The towering shearling collar envelops the wearer entirely, offering protection from freezing winds, while the cavernous patch pockets and reinforced placket reflect Sweden’s reputation for functional, purposeful design.
This example is in very good vintage condition and has been preserved with care. The cotton shell has been professionally dry cleaned and reproofed in-house, restoring its water-resistant finish while keeping the natural weight and drape of the fabric. The sheepskin lining is in excellent order, full, warm, and resilient, with a small natural red mark from the hide visible on the inside. There’s a faint mark beside the second button and a light mark on the upper left arm, both minor and barely noticeable in wear. All buttons are secure, the seams are strong, and the overall structure is sound — a genuine and well-preserved piece of Swedish military outerwear built to last.
Key Features
- Swedish Army M1909-43 cold-weather parka – c. 1940s
- Heavy 4.2kg olive-grey cotton canvas outer shell
- Detachable multi-tone sheepskin lining and shearling collar
- Button-front closure with reinforced storm placket
- Large flap-front bellows pockets with button closure
- Adjustable cuffs and internal drawstring waist
- Professionally dry cleaned and reproofed in-house
- Condition: Excellent vintage – strong, supple, and fully functional
Garment Measurements (Laid Flat)
- Chest (armpit to armpit): 26"
- Shoulders (seam to seam): 22"
- Sleeve length (shoulder seam to cuff): 27"
- Sleeve length (underarm seam to cuff): 19"
- Back length (collar seam to hem): 41"
This trench coat is best suited for a 46" chest and a XL frame.
A field-tested icon of Swedish military engineering — robust, refined, and built with the kind of authenticity that modern reproductions can only imitate.
