Vintage WWII German Officer Horsehide Leather Trench Coat

This original German officer’s leather trench coat dates to the 1940s and stands as a strong example of wartime-era Ledermantel production. Privately purchased rather than issued, coats of this type were worn by officers who required durability, protection, and presence beyond standard regulation garments. Constructed from heavyweight horsehide, this example retains the substance, structure, and material authority expected of officer-grade leatherwear from the period.

The coat is cut in a long, double breasted form with a shaped waist and full belt, following the established military trench silhouette adapted into leather during the Second World War. Broad lapels define the chest, while the front is secured with six original leather covered buttons and reinforced buttonholes. The waist belt remains present with its matching leather covered buckle, and the cuffs retain their original period fastenings. Stitching throughout is consistent and deliberate, reflecting tailored construction rather than mass production.

The horsehide displays extensive natural ageing, with surface creasing, abrasion, and tonal variation developed through prolonged use. These characteristics are evenly distributed and consistent with genuine wartime wear. When received, the leather at the collar and nape showed pronounced dryness from long term use. This area has since been carefully conditioned to restore flexibility and stability. While now sound and wearable, it remains an area that should be treated with appropriate care, as expected with original leather of this age.

Internally, the original lining remains intact and functional, showing age related wear in keeping with the coat’s service life. There is historic stitching visible to the lower hem and at the nape of the neck, along with some small holes to the lining fabric. These repairs and wear points are consistent with long use and have been retained as part of the garment’s original character. They do not affect structure or wearability.

The coat has been professionally cleaned and conditioned using a preservation led approach. No cosmetic reconstruction or unnecessary intervention has been carried out. The intention has been to stabilise the materials and present the coat honestly, allowing its age, wear, and construction to remain visible and understood.

Key Details

• Original German officer’s leather trench coat (Ledermantel)
• 1940s Second World War period example
• Privately purchased officer grade garment
• Heavyweight horsehide construction
• Long double breasted cut with shaped waist
• Original leather covered front buttons
• Original waist belt with leather covered buckle
• Adjustable cuffs with original period fastenings
• Original lining with age related wear and historic repairs
• Structurally sound and fully wearable

Garment Measurements (Laid Flat)

• Chest (pit to pit): 23"
• Shoulders (seam to seam): 19"
• Sleeve length (shoulder seam to cuff): 26"
• Sleeve length (underarm seam to cuff): 17.5"
• Back length (collar seam to hem): 48"

Best suited to an approximate 42 inch chest with a medium frame. Please compare measurements with a similar garment for accuracy.