Original German Pre-WWI Imperial German Prussian Army Artillery Regiment M1895 Dunkelblau Waffenrock Tunic With Unit Corresponding Shoulder Straps Original Items

Original Items: Only One Available. This is an exquisite M-1895 Prussian Waffenrock, adorned with the enchanting Brandenburg Cuffs that beautifully complement its rich navy blue color. The uniform was first introduced in 1842 by Preußen (Prussia) for all foot-troops, and it was to be worn with a dignified, tall leather spiked helmet, called a Pickelhaube. The Waffenrock, a full-length coat, was a significant departure from the short Kollet, a waist-length jacket with tails, that was worn with the high leather Tschako during the Napoleonic wars.

Dunkelblau (dark blue) Waffenrock were typically worn by Infantry, Feldartillerie (Field Artillery), Fußartillerie (Foot Artillery) Regiments, Train (Supply), Pionier (Pioneers) and most other units. Hellblau (light blue) Waffenrock were worn by the majority of Dragoner (Mounted Infantry) Regiments (except Hessen) while dark green Waffenrock were worn by Jäger (light Infantry) Battalions.

Issued Waffenrocks tend to be dark while Eigetumsstück (privately purchased) Waffenrocks are much lighter in color. Officer’s Waffenrock, when compared to an issued Waffenrock from the same unit, are considerably lighter in color as they were privately purchased. Conjointly, the lighter color was probably deemed “more fashionable” than the darker issued Waffenrocks of the men.

An AKO on 25 April 1895 announced the final refinements to the Waffenrock. The collar height on issue Waffenrock ranged from 4.5 to 5 cm, however, privately purchased Waffenrock invariably have higher collars ranging from 6 cm to 7 cm. Buttons were reduced in size from 25mm to 21mm. The rear skirt was given an actual vent on the M1895 Waffenrock, allowing the two rear skirt liner pockets to be accessed through a long vertical slit opening between the rear scallops. The color of the Waffenrock ranged from light to dark blue or green and the collar and cuffs came in a rainbow of colors as did the shoulder straps. The Waffenrock was to stay in this form until the eventual replacement by the M1907/10 Feldgrau Feldrock.

This M1895 has a lovely 2” (5cm) standing collar, which is an indication of this being an issued one and not a private purchase. The color is the correct Dunkelblau and has black/red Brandenburg Cuffs.

Upon visual inspection, it can be determined that the uniform is in relatively good condition. However, there are a few key factors that have had a detrimental effect on its overall state. One of the most noticeable issues is the heavy fading that can be observed throughout the fabric. Additionally, there are numerous areas where moth damage has left holes and frayed edges. Despite this, all of the buttons are still present and attached to the uniform. Unfortunately, the inner lining has suffered from deterioration and there are stains present, which are both telltale signs that this uniform has been worn on multiple occasions.

This is a lovely example and not too many are left on the market! Comes ready to display!

Approximate Measurements:
Collar to shoulder: 10″
Shoulder to sleeve: 24”
Shoulder to shoulder: 16”
Chest width: 20″
Waist width: 18″
Hip width: 18″
Front length: 31.5