British WWI Issue Gray Flannel Shirt

British WWI Issue Gray Flannel Shirt

Regulation pattern natural gray wool flannel pullover shirt has the blue and white striped standing collar introduced in August 1914. Bib front placket closes with tin utility buttons and a strip of white cotton at the base. Has maker's firm " STOLLERY, FIFIELD, & MANTLE" in the collar, The 'grayback' shirt and later war was standard issue in the British Army for many years before the war and continued in service throughout the conflict with the natural gray shade coming in to use later in the war. Despite being issued in the hundreds of thousands, these very utilitarian shirts tended to be used until used up, with only a lucky few to be found in private collections or museums today. The gray issue shirt makes an enlisted 'Gor Blimey' cap appear almost common by comparison!  This excellent example shows very little use.

$800-$1200