Germany, Heer. A Late-War Motorcyclist Overcoat

 (Heer Kradmantel). A well-preserved Heer motorcyclist overcoat, constructed of a field-grey rubberized oilcloth shell. It features a turned-down collar constructed of field-grey wool, while the shoulders are unusually topped by straps, similarly constructed of field-grey wool, which are appropriately trimmed with copper-brown piping. Each measuring 45 mm (w) x 100 mm (l), the straps are secured in place with loops at the outer edges and with pebbled zink buttons on the inner edge. Each cuff culminates in an integral strap perforated with a reinforced buttonhole, in turn meeting two pebbled zink buttons for flush or open closure as desired. The waistband is flanked by large pockets, each cloning with a scalloped flap perforated with a reinforced buttonhole, in turn meeting a single pebbled zink button. An integral belt consists of two elongated straps stitched into the back of the waistband, looping around to fasten closed with three buttons. Additional pebbled magnetic metal buttons are stitched in place at the lower quarter, while the breasts close with pebbled zink buttons meeting reinforced buttonholes on the opposite  flaps. A vertical slash set into the back also fastens closed with an array of buttons to facilitate comfortable seating on a motorcycle. The underlay of the material presents plain through the interior. A manufacturer’s label bearing illegible marks is stitched onto the collar, while a number “627” is stamped multiple times throughout the liner. The overcoat measures approximately 52 cm across the shoulders, with an arm length of 72 cm, and an overall length of 148 cm. Issues consistent with age and field use are evident, and include soiling and fatigue throughout both the exterior and interior material, the loss of a small number of buttons, and minor mothing throughout the wool collar. This late-war example remains in a very fine condition.