M40 Field Grey Trousers

Product Description: This is an outstanding pair of hard to find and very desirable M40 Field Grey Trousers. These unissued original trousers were a direct vet family purchase, from the family of a Technical Sergeant Labonte who served during the war. These are made from a dense field gray wool fabric, with a slightly blue-green shade. There are no holes, no moth damage. These trousers appear to have never been worn. The cut is textbook for this model, with straight legs, two slash front pockets, and one rear pocket with button closure. The rear adjustment belt features a black painted metal buckle. Some small parts are pieced together from smaller fabric parts, which is a common trait for wartime production. All of the original black painted metal buttons are intact. The interior of these M40 Field Grey Trousers features a typical partial lining made from various shades of rayon fabric. They retain a complete set of markings, in black ink, with size stamps, the maker name “Otto Samke, Magdeburg,” and the date “8 43.” On the exterior, a few white threads near the waist show where the original factory paper tag was sewn. These trousers are absolutely pristine, and would likely be impossible to upgrade. The condition rates as near mint. These are extremely tough to find in this condition.

Historical Description: Trousers used by the armed forces of Germany during the World Wars existed in countless forms, as varied as any other uniform part. In general, they were manufactured in fabrics that matched the jackets worn by the soldiers, sailors and airmen, although there were of course exceptions to this. Wool was generally the standard issue fabric for basic uniforms, but trousers were also made in herringbone twill, tropical fabrics, and camouflage. Some trouser styles, like the black trousers worn by armored vehicle crews, or the field-gray trousers worn by Luftwaffe paratroopers, were unique to specific branches of service, while others were generic and issued to many unit types. During the Third Reich, there were a variety of different models used by the military, that changed over time. The early straight-leg trousers with single rear adjustment belt were broadly replaced in 1942 with a tapered leg style that was better suited for wear with low boots. After the wars, uniform trousers were regarded as a useful commodity in a nation faced with clothing shortages. Most were worn out or otherwise destroyed, and they are generally scarce today.

We are the leading team of military antique specialists. We have specialized in military antiques for over 25 years.

Epic Artifacts offers free evaluations and the highest prices available for your collectibles.

We purchase single items, entire collections, or family estates.

Click the link here to learn more: Free Evaluation or Inquiries 

or feel free to email us directly: info@epicartifacts.com