Remarkable piece in amazing condition, found in the back of a closet at family member’s estate. Red wool with black velvet cuffs and collar, gold boullion tape and collar medallions; intact padded silk lining, hand-stitched. Beautiful construction throughout. Tunic style coats were introduced after the Crimean War in 1855. Dating of this piece is also based on the Firmin & Sons Royal Buttonmakers’ signed plated buttons and placement of bullion collar trim. Firmin & Sons Logo added “Ltd.” to their mark after 1875. All 20 buttons are here and these pre-1875 buttons read “Firmin & Sons London” on the back. Face of the buttons read “Medical Staff” around the border with sash, center of the button is the “VR” for Queen Victoria, who reigned from 1837-1901. Medical staff were organized into a separate department in 1873. (Note, the original owner was a doctor.) Gold trim is uniformly “gold” with some areas of tarnish. Color variations are due to photography. There is one stain on the back shoulder, small stains on the interior and sweat marks on the lining, both cuff edges are worn but no moth holes and no alterations. A reputable textile restorer should be consulted before attempting to clean anything due to its age and remarkable condition. Not a reproduction, definitely a collector’s item. Jacket is small. Measurements: Back shoulder 16-1/2" Chest 34" Waist 26" Sleeve length shoulder to wrist 24-1/2" Sleeve length center neck to wrist 34" Back length neck to hem 30"