When it comes to collecting Zippo lighters, there are several factors to consider. First, you need to know how expensive they are. While a simple lighter isn’t worth a lot, the price of a rare model can add up to thousands of dollars. Second, you should know that Zippo makes limited runs of several different lighters each year. Usually, there are about 30 new lighter designs available each year, with some destined for mass market success, while others are intended to become collectibles. Some of the more expensive models, such as 18K gold lighters, can easily cost over ten thousand dollars.
Chrome Zippo Windproof Lighter
A chrome Zippo lighter is one of the most collectible types of lighters. These lighters come with all of the bells and whistles that you would expect from a Zippo lighter. The chrome finish of the lighter is very attractive and is very easy to use. In addition, it has an epoxy flame and is windproof. In addition, the MultiCut design wraps around the lighter, giving it a distinct look. These lighters are authenticated with a serial number on the bottom and are backed by the Zippo guarantee. Lastly, they come packaged in a beautiful gift box.
The Chrome Zippo Windproof Lighter is made of chrome and has an engraved metal case. The lighter’s inner compartment contains the spring-toggle lever, wick, windscreen chimney, and flint. The outer case has a metal bottom that is slightly smaller than the inner part of the case, and it slips into it.
Black Crackle
The Black Crackle Zippo is one of the most collectible lighters available. It was produced during World War II as a special model, and it is called “Black Crackle” because of the paint cracking. This model is the “holy grail” of Zippo collectors.
The Black Crackle Zippo resembles the modern Zippo lighter and helped establish the Zippo brand. However, it was made from more durable metals, like chrome or nickel, and the finish is black crackle. This finish was designed to frighten off enemy snipers. Collectibles of this design are difficult to find, especially those manufactured before the 1934 Patent Zippo lighter.
Date codes are also helpful when identifying vintage Zippo lighters. Since 1955, Zippos have a date code stamped on them. If the lighter has a date code that was stamped before this time, it is likely an early Zippo. If you are not sure whether a Zippo is authentic, you can contact an appraiser in your area or go to archival websites.
Models with no date code
Zippo began year coding lighters in the mid-1950s. This coding was based on a series of dots positioned on the bottom of the lighter. This method was used until the mid-1970s, when Zippo began using a series of forward slashes in place of the dots. This method introduced an error in 1979, which was corrected within a year. Since then, Zippo has remained true to this coding system.
In Vietnam, Zippos were used to burn alcohol, gasoline, or diesel oil. They continued to be collectible even after the war was over, as they reflect the war and are linked to the person who used them. These lighters are also a symbol of sacrifice, making them particularly valuable to collectors.
The early models of the Zippo were made of brass. Later, the company made them out of black crackle steel due to metal shortages. Today, every Zippo has a date code stamped on the bottom, and this code is one of the biggest factors in collecting the lighters. It is estimated that 21% of Zippo owners are collectors.
Models with a flat bottom
There are three main types of collectible Zippo lighters. There are the ones with the classic rounded bottom and the ones with flat bottoms. Each type of lighter is unique and has a unique design. Models with flat bottoms are more collectible than models with round bottoms.
Collectible models of Zippo lighters are those that have a flat bottom and are made of brass. These lighters are the earliest of the series. The flat bottomed ones were produced between 1940 and 1941. They have the largest number of collectors and are the most desirable.
Zippo lighters have become popular with members of the U.S. military during World War II. Many of them were hand-painted and were highly collectible. Those made during this time period still have their value, and some are worth hundreds of dollars. Although the lighters have changed a lot over the years, they have never lost their classic quality or style.