Zippo Lighter, Bradford PA (Commercial Design)
Decorative Art / Mid-Century Industrial Design • Zippo Manufacturing Company (George G. Blaisdell, founder/original designer)
Style & Movement
Mid-Century Modern Industrial Design / Americana
Medium & Technique
Chrome-plated brass with cold-stamped/embossed markings and mechanical engraving
Creation Period
Circa 1978 (Based on the '|||' date code indicates a production year of 1978)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 2.25" x 1.5" x 0.5" (Classic rectangular pocket format)
Subject Description
The piece is a functional windproof lighter featuring the iconic Zippo script logo and patent/location markings. It represents the utilitarian 'Form Follows Function' philosophy of American industrial exports.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good/Very Good; showing minor surface scuffs and fingerprints consistent with handling, but no deep gouges or structural deformation.
Estimated Market Value
$25 - $75 USD (depending on the condition of the top-side art/finish)
Auction Estimate
$20 - $50 USD
Provenance History
Mass-produced in Bradford, Pennsylvania. Identifiable through bottom stamp markings as an authentic unit from the late 1970s cycle of production.
Art Historical Significance
A quintessential piece of 20th-century American design, the Zippo is categorized as a permanent design icon, similar to the Coca-Cola bottle, representing the height of durable US manufacturing.
Notable Features
Features the 1978 date code (three vertical slashes on the right of the logo); includes the registered trademark 'R' symbol and the 'PA.' abbreviation for Pennsylvania.
Condition Issues
Visible surface micro-scratching on the high-polish chrome; potential oxidation of internal mechanism (though not visible in photo).
Conservation Recommendations
Store in a dry, micro-climate controlled environment; handle with cotton gloves to prevent oil-induced tarnish; use a specialized microfiber cloth for polishing.