Rare German Leather Convertible Motorcycle Trench Coat WWII Era? Astor Hardware

Rare vintage German leather motorcycle trench coat believed to date to the late 1930s or 1940s. This substantial full-length coat is crafted from thick leather with a warm lined interior, double-breasted front, oversized storm collar, waist belt, and heavy-duty construction typical of early European motorcycle apparel.  One of its most unusual features is the convertible lower section. The skirt is fitted with buttons and fastening points that allow it to be secured around each leg, transforming the coat into protective riding leg coverings while on a motorcycle. This practical design helped shield riders from wind, rain, mud, and road debris, making it a distinctive feature of early European motorcycle apparel.  The coat features Astor-marked hardware, produced by the German hardware manufacturer Astor-Berning. Research suggests this hardware was used on high-quality German garments during the pre-war and WWII era.  Provenance  This coat comes from my family’s collection. My father purchased it at a flea market in the 1970s and wore it for years as his motorcycle coat.  According to the woman who sold it to him, her husband had worn the coat while serving on the German side during World War II. Unfortunately, there is no documentation to independently verify this story, so it is shared here strictly as family provenance.  Keywords  German motorcycle coat, German leather trench, WWII era, astor hardware, vintage motorcycle coat, leather trench coat, wool lined coat,