Rare 50s Vintage Czech Reversible Mrácky / Duby Camo Jacket - X-Large

Genuine Czech Army issue

Circa 1950s

An incredibly rare, fully reversible jacket displaying two beautiful camo prints on either side. One side for spring & summer, the other for autumn. These were originally designed in the early Soviet era and issued to snipers and reconnaissance teams. 

There are two types of this jacket, this example being the latter, displaying green Mrácky on one side, and a Czech copy of the German wartime Leibermuster pattern known as "Duby" on the other. The former version displays the same, recoloured "Mrácky" (Clouds) camouflage printed on either side - one side green, the other, brown.

They had huge hoods with integrated face veils and integrated gloves for extra concealment. However, after the short service life of these jackets had elapsed, very often, and as is the case with this jacket, both of these features were removed, and the jackets were reconstructed, transforming them into work uniforms for daily duties. Nothing went to waste during Soviet times, so the actual military use extended far beyond their original purpose. There remain, however, small fabric loops, designed for the wearer to attach local, seasonal foliage for better concealment during operations. 

Throughout World War 2, Czechoslovakia was under German occupation, and much of the design and fabric that was used to create these jackets clearly displays German Military influence. Due to Soviet reforms, Czechoslovakia had a large and illustrious garment industry during the period; private tailoring houses and fashion ateliers were absorbed into state enterprises, machinery was often pre-war German or domestic, maintained and scaled rather than modernised.

After the service life of the originally designed jackets was done, they were handed over to factories for mass alterations. Notably, two alteration styles were standardised, one, seen on this example with a deep V-neckline, the other, using fabric salvaged from the integrated hood and gloves, featured a newly fabricated collar with a throat placket and a square patch pocket over the left breast. Other various reconstructions/modifications do exist, however.

The period photograph shows a Czech marksman wearing a modified Duby camo jacket.

Due to their long and hard-wearing use in a military capacity, plus several decades in storage, these are often found heavily worn, so it is a pleasure to see an example in wearable condition in a good size.

Very good condition with signs of real wear, repairs, and some staining & discolouration. This jacket has immense character and visible history. Please study the photos carefully.