Original Item: One Only. Raised in 1689, The 5th Royal Irish Lancers had a long history. This tunic dating from the turn of the century shows buttons bearing Kings Crown indicating after 1901. Always the hardest Lancer Regiment for which to find militaria, this tunic is a very rare find. All buttons and collar badges being present and it’s navy blue and red Melton cloth construction retaining full color. The Lancers Tunic with its side buttons somehow has always been one of the most romantic uniforms for Other Ranks. In very acceptable display condition, there is significant moth damage to the collar area, and some interior spots, some delicate care is required.
This Regiment saw many years of Glory and were led by many famous Officer’s who went onto the General Staff to make their own imprint on history; in particular Colonel Allenby who commanded at the time this tunic was in service and became the Commanding General in the Middle Eastern Campaign during WW1. In 1922 this old Regiment was merged with the 16th. Queen’s Lancers and this pattern Tunic became obsolete.