German/Austrian WWII Tunic

A fascinating and completely untouched example of a transitional tunic originally issued to the Austrian Army prior to the 1938 Anschluss. Following Austria’s incorporation into the Third Reich, this tunic remained in service without alteration, presenting an exceptional piece of history that bridges both armies.

Constructed in the classic Austrian four-pocket style with five-button front closure, it features deeply scalloped pocket flaps with individual pleats and a dark green collar fitted with Bevo-woven cavalry collar patches. The senior NCO shoulder boards are beautifully detailed—dark green centred with deep yellow piping, three rank pips, and surrounded by oxidised silver tress, which continues onto the collar. Each lower sleeve displays two Der Spiess pips.

To the upper left breast sits an early white-on-dark-green Bevo-woven breast eagle. Mounted to the upper left epaulette and second buttonhole is the sharpshooter’s award with shield, crossed swords, and one acorn attachment. Above the right breast pocket is a two-place ribbon bar—one for the Entry into Czechoslovakia medal with Prague Castle Bar, and the other, likely, for an Austrian World War I service medal in gold and black.

The tunic shows scattered snags and minor mothing, particularly to the lower sleeves, with the upper interior neatly lined in a quilted, padded stitch pattern. Overall, an exceptionally interesting and completely original tunic—an unaltered example of Austria’s transition into the Wehrmacht, worn by a senior non-commissioned officer.

Ref; 93171