Rare WW2 British Home Guard Cape

An extremely rare WW2 British Home Guard cape issued to the Home Guard from November 1940 until made obsolete in early 1942 as a substitute for greatcoats which were in short supply due to the massive expansion of the army.
This piece is in quite superb condition with no moth or damage & retains all of its front fastening buttons. Lined in shirt material & still with its two straps to inside for securing around the shoulders .


The Home Guard Cape was a replacement for the greatcoat which was in short supply in late 1940 after air raids had severely disrupted the clothing industry in the East End of London. The Home Guard needed an over-garment to cover their thin denim uniforms which were insufficient to keep the wearer warm on cold nights and it was suggested that an ‘Austrian Pattern’ cape be produced which would be simpler to manufacture than the service greatcoat. On 16th October 1940 500,000 capes were ordered, with delivery starting in November 1940. Made obsolete in November 1942 thus surviving examples are rare.

Code: 12741