Zippo Lighter Collection of 149, Assorted Engraved, Enamelled and Brass Designs, for Display, Parts and Restoration

One hundred and forty-nine Zippo windproof lighters gathered into a single group: brushed and polished chrome, solid brass, enamelled colour, engraved emblems and printed graphics, offered together for display, spare parts and restoration.

The Piece

George G. Blaisdell began making the Zippo in Bradford, Pennsylvania, in 1933, and its hinged lid, chimney and flint wheel have barely changed since. Because the case is so durable and so easy to decorate, the Zippo became a canvas for advertising, military insignia, souvenirs and art, and collectors date and value examples by their base stamps, finishes and designs.

This group covers a remarkable range. There are plain brushed and high-polish chrome cases, brass cases toned with age, black matte and coloured enamel cases in red, green and pink, and many decorated with engraved crests, eagles, dragons, cars and wildlife, enamel badges and printed scenes. Several carry woven, checkerboard and diamond-pattern finishes, and a few slim models sit among the regular cases.

A group of this size is a rare resource for a restorer or a collector looking for particular designs, base codes and inserts, and it makes a striking display as a single wall of metal and colour.

Details

• Maker: Zippo
• Quantity: 149 lighters
• Type: Windproof oil lighters
• Finishes: Chrome, brass, enamel, engraved and printed
• Sizes: Regular and slim cases
• Function: Untested; none has been filled or lit

Condition

• Heavy wear throughout: scratches, dents, paint loss, tarnish and rust on many cases.
• Function untested; offered for display, spare parts and restoration.
• Condition varies from piece to piece; every lighter is shown in the gallery.

Condition grade C (fair, heavy wear) on the Japanese scale; see Japanese condition ranks, explained.

Authenticity & Care

Zippo cases carry the maker’s stamp on the base, which collectors use to identify date and factory. Lighters are sent empty of fuel: refill only after cleaning and checking each insert, and store them dry to slow further corrosion.

Delivery from Japan

The group is wrapped and packed in a single strong carton, sent without fuel. It ships from Tokyo, insured and tracked, by EMS or an equivalent express service; import duties, where due, are payable on arrival. Please ask anything before you buy, and see our published policy.