British Denison 1'st pattern MKII Paratrooper Smock

The Denison smock was a coverall jacket issued to Special Operations Executive (SOE) agents, the Parachute Regiment, the Glider Pilot Regiment, Air Landing Regiments, Air Observation Post Squadrons, Commando units, and other Commonwealth airborne units, to wear over their Battle Dress uniform during the Second World War. The smock was initially worn over the paratrooper’s webbing equipment, but under his parachute pack and harness, as its primary purpose was to prevent the wearer’s equipment from snagging while emplaned or during a jump. It was equally useful for camouflage and as a windproof garment that provided a method of carrying ammunition or equipment. Contemporary photographs show that airborne troops preferred to wear the smocks under their webbing once they had landed.

Here is a very good explanation about this pattern, “Smock, Denison, Airborne Troops By Cal Fischer:

1st Pattern (Mark 2), In late 1942, early 1943 as the new Airborne Forces expanded, the need for smocks grew, in order to speed production the Denison pattern was screen printed on the fabric with colourfast dyes. All other features remained unchanged, this is why I refer to this as 1st pattern Mk II.

Modifications: The most common mod was to have a full length zipper installed, by the unit tailor for Enlisted Men and private tailors for Officers. Two other mods encountered are the removal elasticized pockets from the “Oversmock, Parachutist, 1942 Pattern” which were then sewn to the lower sides of the smock, addition of snaps at the small of the back to secure the “beaver tail” when not in use, or just cutting the tail from the smock once on the ground (this was probably the preferred method of the SOE agents).

This is a original WWII British Denison Smock, with its original label, Size 8 (large!). Date of construction is stamped in red ink, we think it reads 1942. Zipper is in working condition. “Beaver tail” war time removed as they ost often are. Besides that is the smock complete with all buttons still present. No tears, holes or mendings. Camouflage colors are still strong. All in all a very nice example with light signs of age and use.

Scarce and desirable war time smock!!