Fleece, Leather & Legacy

Fleece, Leather & Legacy

The Remarkable Story of a WW2 Gunner's Jacket

A piece of history will go under the hammer next month as a World War Two flying jacket, once owned by a Royal Australian Air Force gunner, is set to be featured in our 12 March Homes & Interiors Sale. 

27 February 2024

VIEW LOT     REQUEST A VALUATION     CONTACT A SPECIALIST

 

An original World War Two flying jacket owned by a gunner in the Royal Australian Airforce come for sale at auction next month. The Irvin 1943 pattern sheep skin and fleece lined leather jacket was acquired after the war by an Essex farmer. It has a guide of £400-600 as part of the Arms and Militaria section in the March 12 Home and Interiors sale.

 

A WWII Irvin 1943 pattern sheep skin and fleece lined leather flying jacket (£400-600)

A WWII Irvin 1943 pattern sheep skin and fleece lined leather flying jacket (£400-600)

 

 

The jacket, labelled '40288 1943' is also inscribed in ink for the original owner WS Cheetham 411645 RAAF. Sydney Wilfred Cheetham (1921-1996) was born in Toowoomba, Queensland and enlisted in the RAAF in November 1941.Transported from Australia to Canada on MS Klipfontein in May 1942, he trained as a WOAG (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) and joined 58 Squadron (Coastal Command) in Stornoway. Flying in Handley Page Halifax heavy bombers, he completed 38 sorties totalling more than 330 hours.

 

A WWII Irvin 1943 pattern sheep skin and fleece lined leather flying jacket (£400-600)

A WWII Irvin 1943 pattern sheep skin and fleece lined leather flying jacket (£400-600)

 

 

This jacket was bought from a surplus shop after the war by the farmer to wear against the elements driving his tractor. It has since come to auction by descent.

 


 

Homes & Interiors

Tuesday 12 March | 9:30am

homesandinteriors@sworder.co.uk | 01279 817778

 

VIEW LOT

 


 

 

 


 

Recent News

 

Capturing Strength and Spirit | The Artistry of the Sancai Glazed Horse

The highlight of the upcoming Asian Art auction is undoubtedly the magnificent sancai-glazed pottery horse from the Tang dynasty (618-907). 

14 May 2024

European Ceramics from the Collection of Hermann Baer (1898-1977)

Sworders feel privileged to be entrusted to disperse this select group of items from the deeply cherished personal collection of the late Hermann Baer (1898-1977), including antique Italian maiolica and German faience.

8 May 2024

A Taste of High Society | Discover the Treasures of London's Knightsbridge

The Homes & Interiors Department is delighted to offer items from one of London’s most exclusive areas, Knightsbridge, in their 14 May sale.

7 May 2024

 


 

Get Sworders News