Offered in this lot is an Original Italian Carabinieri Dress Uniform Tunic Wool Jacket, circa post WWII period. The style is almost timeless and is essentially identical to that from earlier periods. The Carabinieri are a military police force, a Gendarmerie-like group governed by the Ministry of Defense, with military and civilian duties; while Polizia di Stato is similar to other civilian police forces and is governed by the Ministry of Interior. The carabinieri are actually older than Italy itself. Their force was founded by Victor Emanuel I, Duke of Savoy and King of Sardinia almost half a century before modern Italy came into existence. Their name comes from the carabina, the rifle they traditionally carried. The Carabinieri are often referred to as "La Benemerita" (The Reputable or The Meritorious) as they are a trusted and prestigious law enforcement institution in Italy. The first nine written rules about Tuscany uniforms for Carabinieri date back to 9 August 1814 and recite the first design of the uniforms. For historical and ceremonial use, the Carabinieri uniform consists of a distinctive black uniform made of silver braids around the collar and cuffs, edges trimmed in scarlet and epaulettes in silver. This ceremonial wool is in fair condition with previous repairs and light moth damage observed. All original metal buttons and braids, epaulettes removed. Scarlet trim still looks sharp! One of the interior buttons is labeled "Unione Militare", the name of a company specialized in the supply of uniforms and accessories for the Italian armed forces. Tunic size approximate is 34" chest, 15.5" collar/neck, 32" arm.