Vintage 1940s Swedish M1909 Livpäls Sheepskin Lined Parka Overcoat

The Swedish M1909 Livpäls, often referred to as the “Coat for Life”, is one of the most distinctive pieces of Scandinavian cold-weather clothing. Developed for protection through severe Swedish winters, its formidable construction combines a heavyweight woven canvas shell with a complete natural sheepskin lining.

Introduced as the M1909 pattern in the early twentieth century, the design remained in use for decades, continuing through the wartime and post-war periods. Its longevity came from a remarkably straightforward principle: create an outer garment capable of providing serious insulation, protection and durability without unnecessary complication.

This example is constructed from densely woven cotton canvas and lined throughout in thick natural sheepskin. The fleece remains exceptionally full and resilient, while the large shearling collar can be raised around the neck when greater protection is required.

The practical detailing is equally purposeful. A substantial button front sits beneath a reinforced storm placket, large bellows pockets provide generous storage, adjustable cuffs control the sleeves and an internal drawstring allows the waist to be drawn closer to the body.

Inside is a single original “CFS 2” stamp. The numeral 2 denotes the original size designation, while CFS is associated with Swedish Civil Defence administration. There is no separate maker or dated inspection stamp, so we have deliberately avoided assigning the coat an exact year and conservatively date this example to circa 1940s–1950s.

The original Size 2 designation does not translate directly to modern sizing. These coats were intentionally cut with considerable room for uniform and winter layers, and the substantial sheepskin lining also reduces the internal space. Actual garment measurements should therefore be used as the primary guide to fit.

This is an exceptionally well-preserved example of the M1909 Livpäls. Its scale, materials and uncompromising construction make the “Coat for Life” name particularly fitting, and more than anything, it remains a remarkably usable piece of historic winter clothing.

Condition & Preservation

Excellent vintage condition and particularly well preserved for a garment of this age.

The heavyweight canvas remains strong, clean and structurally excellent, while the natural sheepskin lining retains exceptional density and resilience. Seams, buttons and the principal structural details remain secure and sound.

There is a very small superficial scuff to the left shoulder. It has not broken through the canvas and does not affect the strength or integrity of the fabric. It is minor in the context of the coat as a whole, but is noted for complete transparency and shown in the detailed photographs.

The parka has been professionally dry cleaned and reproofed in-house in our workshop, with the process carefully undertaken to preserve the original materials, structure and character of the garment.

Key Identifying Features

• Swedish M1909 Livpäls
• Known as the “Coat for Life”
• Circa 1940s–1950s
• Original internal “CFS 2” stamp
• Swedish Size 2 designation
• Heavyweight woven cotton canvas shell
• Full natural sheepskin lining
• Large protective shearling collar
• Reinforced button-front storm closure
• Large bellows pockets with buttoned flaps
• Adjustable cuffs
• Internal drawstring waist
• Generous period overcoat cut
• Specialist dry cleaned in-house
• Excellent vintage condition

Garment Measurements, Laid Flat

• Chest, armpit to armpit: 25"
• Shoulders, seam to seam: 20"
• Sleeve length, shoulder seam to cuff: 26.5"
• Sleeve length, underarm seam to cuff: 17.5"
• Back length, collar seam to hem: 38"

The original internal stamp bears the numeral “2”, denoting the period size. Size 2 is generally regarded as a Medium within this system. These coats were deliberately made with substantial external proportions to be worn over clothing, while the exceptionally thick sheepskin lining considerably reduces the usable internal space.Please compare these measurements against a similar garment you own to confirm fit before purchasing.