Zippo dating

How do you date a Zippo lighter?

Dating Your Zippo Lighter. As with most collectibles, the date of manufacture of a Zippo lighter often affects its value. Valuable information on the bottom of every Zippo windproof lighter can help you determine its date of manufacture. Starting in the mid 50’s, a date code was stamped on the bottom of every Zippo lighter made.

How accurate is the Zippo dating information?

The Zippo dating information shown below is more accurate than the current Zippo ® Collectors Guide, but omits various details regarding changes in logo style, design, word spacing, and unique variations. The best source of complete information on Zippo lighter dating is Davids book and this book is a must for any serious collector.

How has the Zippo Stamp changed over the years?

There have been three major changes, as show below. From 1933 to the mid 50s, the word Zippo was stamped in block letters. The Zippo script logo was developed in the late 40s and was phased-in on the lighter bottom stamp around 1955. In the late 70s the logo was redesigned. It was incorporated into the bottom stamp in 1980.

What is Zippo Canada?

Our website is dedicated to the arts and promoting local art groups. Zippo Canada opened in August 1949 and was the only place, other than Bradford, where Zippo lighters were produced.

What does the date code on a Zippo Lighter mean?

Starting in the mid 50’s, a date code was stamped on the bottom of every Zippo lighter made. The original purpose was for quality control. The date code has since become an invaluable tool for Zippo collectors. Most lighters fabricated between 1933 and 1957 can be identified by style and model and the patent or patent-pending marks.

How many Zippo lighters were made in Canada?

About 13.5 million lighters were produced by Zippo Canada. The bottom stamp differs by having Niagara Falls, Ontario rather than Bradford, PA on it. Zippos had a flat bottom until 1946 when the bottoms were indented. Starting in 1958 Zippo used date codes (there were prior date codes, but no one seems clear on exactly what they were).

How do I find out what year my Zippo is?

If the Zippo is 1958 or later, check the Date Code Chart to find the year and, frequently, month of production. The Date Code Chart is below. 203695: 1942-1946 This number stamped in error, typically on black crackle wartime models

When were the first Zippo BLU™ butane lighters made?

The first Zippo BLU™ butane lighters were made in 2007. The date code is the same format as Regular Windproof Lighters. SOURCES: Chart and footnotes are from the Zippo Facebook page as is the Bottom Stamp image.

Are Zippo lighters made in Canada?

Zippo Canada opened in August 1949 and was the only place, other than Bradford, where Zippo lighters were produced. Operations included the final set-up of the lighter case and insert, surface engraving, cleaning, repair clinic, Items such as packaging and instruction pamphlets, were all “Made in Canada”

When did Zippo first start using the Pat bottom stamp?

In 1949 Zippo first produced the lighters with a easily recognised bottom stamp, that stated the words PAT. PEND. Once Zippo Canada got the patent for the lighter, they used a new bottom stamp that stated PATENTED 1950.

Can I return my original inside unit to Zippo?

Please note that due to government regulations, Zippo is unable to return your original inside unit to you. Should you wish to keep your original inside unit, please remove it prior to sending your lighter to us.

How much is a Zippo worth?

Zippo squad became a phrase of American military jargon for being assigned to burn a village. The M132 Armored Flamethrower was referred to as a Zippo. Current Zippos carry a suggested retail price between US$14.95 and US$11,893.95 (for the 18k solid gold model).