An early development in Nazi combat camouflage, the smock was designed to be worn over the conventional uniform, and would become one of the signature items of the Waffen-SS. Designed purely as an aid to concealment, the smock was made without pockets or any provision for mounting rank insignia, and is devoid of any metal or leather which could reflect light or make noise if struck or rubbed. The camouflage is the "SS Palm" pattern, one of the more complicated of the early Nazi patterns, integrating a variety of irregular shapes, short ovals, long stripes, and other accents which make it quite distinct from the more conventional patterns. Printing is double sided and the smock is reversible, one side chiefly in greens with brown accents for spring and summer, the reverse in browns and tans for autumn and winter. Elastic bands are integrated into the waist, cuffs and collar, the latter of which was eliminated from later production, with a lace-up front and a pair of flapped slits for accessing pockets on the conventional tunic. Included with the smock is a note from Michael Beaver, author of "Uniforms of the Waffen-SS", "Camouflage Uniforms of the Waffen-SS", and other reference texts, where he states that he acquired this item for an unnamed client, describes it as "unquestionably original", and gives a likely production year of 1940. Close ups of piece can be found on page 822 & 823 of "Camouflage Uniforms of the Waffen-SS".

Excellent, with minor wear and staining. All of the elastic appears to be in good order.