This typical Victorian miner's habit (German: Bergmannshabit) is the traditional jacket of miners in Europe. This actual one was used in the western region of the Ruhr Valley for ceremonial occasions. It dates back to circa 1890. It is made out of heavy black Fabric (feels like a felted wool) featuring black velvet applications around the sleeves, the shoulders, the front and the collar. It has 28 Copper buttons and two golden badges showing the famous "hammer and chisel" symbol of the minors. The Lining was made out of raw silk. It is great piece for a collector. The lower six Button holes had been sewn close.

In 1769 in Saxony, the Marienberg Bergmeister, von Trebra, introduced the wearing of the black mining habit for the first time and it spread very fast to other regions in Germany and Europe.

Size: medium - 42 inches Across Chest (worn open) 27 inches in length, 22 inches sleeve length, 16 1/2 inches Collar,

Condition: In good to fair antique condition - Some rips in the Linings, some staining and some small holes - consistent with age. The lower six Button holes had been sewn close. The garment was spot cleaned, but has not been dry clean (due to age).

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