Original Items: Only One Set Available. This is a wonderful assortment of uniform items as worn by members of the Second Australian Imperial Force during WWII. The uniform items appear to be in near unissued condition with minor storage wear and moth nips, making this an excellent offering. The uniforms of the Australian Army have changed significantly over the past century, although the accouterments worn over this period have remained relatively similar.

The forces of the Australian colonies and the early forces of the Commonwealth post-Federation in 1901 closely followed the uniforms of the British Army. Since then it has continued to be influenced by British but also US styles, as well as including some distinctly Australian designs, reflecting local conditions and trends.

The pre-war Australian Army uniform formed the basis of that worn by the AIF, which adopted the broad-brimmed slouch hat and rising sun badge that carried over into WWII. Peak caps were initially also worn by the infantry, while light horsemen often wore a distinctive emu plume in their slouch hats. A standard khaki puggaree was worn by all arms. From 1916 steel helmets and gas masks were issued for use by infantry on the Western Front. A loose-fitting four-pocket service dress jacket was worn like the P17 example here.

A heavy woolen greatcoat was worn during cold weather, identical to the one included in this group.

The uniform was a drab "pea soup" or khaki color, while all buttons and badges were oxidized to prevent shine, unlike these ones which were blackened. All personnel wore a shoulder title bearing the word "Australia" with devices present on the uniform items.

Rank insignia followed the British Army pattern and were worn on the upper arms (or shoulders for officers). Identical hat and collar badges were worn by all units, which were initially only distinguished by small metal numerals and letters on the shoulder straps (or collars for officers).

All items are in wonderful condition and would be a welcomed addition to any caliber WWI uniform collections.

Comes more than ready for further research and display.

Approximate Measurements:

Jacket
Collar to shoulder: 9"
Shoulder to sleeve: 22”
Shoulder to shoulder: 15.5”
Chest width: 17.5"
Waist width: 16"
Hip width: 21"
Front length: 27.5"

Pants:
Waist: 39"
Inseam: 32"

Coat
Collar to shoulder: 10"
Shoulder to sleeve: 24”
Shoulder to shoulder: 16.5”
Chest width: 20"
Waist width: 20.5"
Hip width: 28"
Front length: 44"