Authentic 1960s Afghan Sheepskin Hippie Coat with Hand Embroidery

An authentic late 1960s Afghan coat handcrafted in Afghanistan from genuine sheepskin shearling with intricate hand-applied silk embroidery. This is a true artisan-made piece — entirely handmade, not factory produced — and it carries all the individuality, irregularity and character that define original Afghan coats of this era.

The outer leather has a rich warm chocolatey brown tone with natural tonal variation and beautiful age patina. The embroidery is worked in silk thread in organic geometric motifs running vertically along the front panels, cuffs and hem. The designs are detailed but not perfectly symmetrical — a hallmark of genuine hand-guided embroidery rather than machine production.

The interior is fully lined in thick natural shearling, with especially long, plush wool through the back panel and slightly shorter shearling through the front sections. The front edges, cuffs and hem are finished with exposed curly sheepskin trim. There are no closures, allowing the coat to be worn open and draped, though hook-and-eye fastenings could easily be added if desired.

This piece is not “perfect” in a modern factory sense — and it should not be. The leather panels show natural variation, the embroidery reflects the human hand, and the shearling varies slightly in density and curl. These are the qualities that make authentic Afghan coats so collectible and impossible to replicate.

Condition

Very good structural vintage condition for approximately 60 years of age. The coat is strong, fully wearable and intact with no tears, holes or structural damage. There are some small superficial scratches and light age-related markings to the leather, consistent with genuine vintage shearling. The embroidery remains secure and vibrant.

As with all handmade Afghan pieces, materials are naturally irregular. The shearling trim varies slightly in texture and fullness, and the leather shows organic tonal variation. These are characteristics of authenticity rather than flaws.

Please note on wear and sensitivity

Authentic Afghan coats use natural, minimally processed sheepskin. Unlike modern commercially treated shearling, the lining retains its original texture. This particular coat feels soft overall, with especially long wool through the back panel, which tends to feel plush rather than scratchy. The front sections have slightly shorter shearling.

However, individuals vary in sensitivity. Those who are particularly sensitive to wool or textured natural fibres may wish to wear a layer underneath. For most wearers, the shearling feels warm and comfortable, but this is important to consider if you have heightened sensitivity.

Measurements

All measurements taken flat. Please consider the thick shearling lining when assessing fit.

Pit to Pit: 47 cm / 18.5 in

Waist: 46 cm / 18.1 in

Hips: 50 cm / 19.7 in

Shoulders: 41 cm / 16.1 in

Sleeve Length: 57 cm / 22.4 in

Bicep Width: 20 cm / 7.9 in

Total Length: 89 cm / 35 in

Size Guidance

Due to the thick shearling lining and structured shoulders, this would best suit approximately:

EU 38 – 40

UK 10 – 12

US 6 – 8

It was too large in the shoulders on the EU 36 model. While worn open, it is not one-size-fits-all. The shearling lining reduces internal room, so please compare measurements carefully with a similar structured coat.

Model wears EU 36 for reference.

Model Measurements

Bust: 82 cm / 32.3 in

Waist: 70 cm / 27.6 in

Hips: 84 cm / 33.1 in

Height: 176 cm / 69.3 in