I have been told this waffenrock is for a NCO traing school established at Sternberg (which explains the Gothic "S" underneath the Gothic "US"), which was specifically intended for the training of armored reconnaissance noncommissioned officers (thanks Bob).
The unit marking is PAA12. "AA", is used for reconnaissance battalions. PAA was not formed until 1943 and served as the divisional reconnaissance battalion for the 12. PD. Since the time frame for the establishment of HUS Sternberg and the redesignation of the former AA(mot.) 2 to PAA12 was about the same, this seems to fine. Since this was a "schoolhouse" it seems logical to that personnel would update their Waffenr�cke to reflect assignment there. (again thanks Bob!)
Here are the pictures of the whole waffenfrock. Unfortunately there is some damage to it. Someone has taken a chunk out of the lining, and the collar hooks are missing on the one side. There are around 8 moth holes (red arrows on the pictures), and it could do with a clean. But on the whole from the outside it looks very nice. Missing the eagle and tabs, though the thread is still there.
I have some questions.
1. How should i clean this, bearing in mind black light issues?
2. Should i replace insignia with genuine ones or leave as is?
3. What are the buttons on the inside back of the collar for?
4. What sort of value what you put on this waffenrock, given the damage?
Thanks, i hope you all like it!
Lewis
