Vintage Department of Trade Standard Lifejacket

An original Department of Transport issue ships life vest stamped 'Standard', 'Front' and for 'Persons of 32 kilos or more' and the same message on the reverse indicating 70 Lbs. It is also stamped 'FOSCO' who we assume was the manufacturer. It appears to be kapok filled and the outer is finished in a dayglo orange cloth with reflective strips. It carries a DT acceptance stamp for September 1982 but despite being nearly 39 years old it is in very good issued condition. It comes complete with various straps and a Mk II Perry emergency whistle which is attached to a lanyard, for attracting attention at night and all original securing straps.

Our research indicates The British Board of Trade was merged with the Ministry of Technology in 1970 to form the Department of Trade. This item is sold as a collectable only and would add an authentic touch to a nautical themed room and would of course be ideal if you should be attending a 'Titanic' or 'What you were wearing when the ship went down' themed party! The final picture attached shows our Boss Mr Oldnautibit's himself wearing a similar lifejacket, borrowed from our stock inventory at just such a party - in those long lost pre Covid times when we could still attend such events! We have also supplied examples to the BBC costume department for that popular long running series set in Poplar. Sadly our supplier has now exhausted his stock when we purchased the last remaining 4 of these vests and when they are sold that will be the end of the line, so grab an example whilst you can! The jacket weighs in at over 2 kilos unpacked so please check delivery charges before ordering. It measures 34" x 20" (86 cm x 51 cm).