Vintage 1980s West German Police Dispatch Biker Motor Coat Leather Jacket “M”

Offered here is an original 1980s West German police jacket in a formal double-breasted peacoat silhouette. This cut was a staple for German law enforcement during the 1980s, a decade defined by the height of the Cold War and significant civil unrest within West Germany. This era saw a shift toward more professionalized and authoritative police uniforms as the country modernized its security apparatus. The longer length of the peacoat was functionally superior for officers on patrol; it provided essential warmth for the hips and lower back during long shifts in the damp German climate, while the formal structure maintained a high degree of professional authority. The design has its roots in traditional naval reefers, which were adapted by the police for their windproof properties and classic, imposing aesthetic.

The jacket is constructed from a heavy black German cowhide, as evidenced by the internal tag reading "Echt Rindleder," which translates simply to "Genuine Cowhide." Cowhide was the standard material for police garments during this period because it offered the highest levels of abrasion resistance and durability for daily duty wear. Unlike sheepskin or lambskin, cowhide could withstand the rigors of physical altercations, inclement weather, and the constant friction caused by equipment belts. This made it the most practical "armor" for an officer on the street. I have found that German police leather from the 80s is particularly dense and "matte" in finish, which was a specific requirement to prevent glare and maintain a utilitarian, professional look.

The front features a double-breasted design with a six-button configuration. This overlap was a vital technical feature, as it created two layers of thick leather over the chest to block biting winds. The jacket is fitted with silver-colored Overhoff & Co buttons. Based in Lüdenscheid, Overhoff & Co is a legendary German manufacturer of uniform hardware, famously known for producing high-quality metal fittings for German military and police organizations for over a century. Their presence on the jacket is a mark of official government specification and industrial reliability.

The architectural details of the jacket include a double-pointed yoke at both the front and the back, which provides structural reinforcement across the shoulders. At the shoulders are buttoned epaulettes, originally used for attaching rank insignia or stabilizing a whistle lanyard. The waist is equipped with two slanted handwarmer pockets for comfort, while two large flapped cargo pockets are situated lower down. These cargo pockets were essential for duty use, and they were typically utilized for storing handcuffs, notebooks, or specialized police gear.

The interior is lined with a lightweight soft black cotton blanket material, which provides consistent warmth without excessive bulk. The arms are lined with a smooth synthetic satin to ensure the jacket can be pulled on quickly over a uniform shirt or knitwear. It includes a single internal storage pocket for personal identification or documents.

The leather is in fantastic shape with no major flaws to note, although there are extremely minor traces of storage wear. The inside liner is in great condition with no notable wear.

The exterior leather has been professionally cleaned and conditioned using our tailored leather care process. The inner liner has been carefully hand cleaned and steamed, along with all internal and external pockets. The metal hardware, including snaps, zippers and buttons, has been cleaned and polished to a shine. This piece is fully wearable and requires no further maintenance.

Recommended Size: M

Tagged Size: N/A

• Chest (Pit to Pit): 23.5” / 59.5cm
• Shoulder (Seam to Seam): 18” / 46cm
• Arm Length (Shoulder to Cuff): 24” / 61cm
• Arm Length (Pit to Cuff): 15” / 38cm
• Length (Nape to Hem): 30” / 76cm

All measurements taken in Inches and Centimetres.

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