by Christopher Skjonsby

Created on: November 07, 2007   Last Updated: November 27, 2011

Zippo began in 1932 and since its inception has produced more than 400 million lighters. Catering to American, European, and Asian markets with several designs introduced. Every lighter carries the world famous Zippo Lifetime Guarantee in that lighters sent back to the factory in Bradford, PA, USA will be restored to full mechanical operation free of charge. All Zippo's are manufactured at the Zippo plant in Bradford, PA. The only exception was a factory in Niagara Falls, ON, Canada that was in operation from 1949-2002. The Canadian plant was shut down in 2002 and all production returned to Bradford.

When collecting Zippos, the condition is everything. Purchasing and keeping a Zippo in mint condition will return value in the long run. Striking the lighter once will only decrease the value and great care should be taken to ensure no damage to the finish occurs. Keep all original packaging and papers that come with the lighter. A variety of themes and methods to display your Zippo Collection are available. Several limited edition runs are available, including prototype materials. These all will have serial numbers marked on the lighter and should come with a certificate of authenticity.

Like all collectables you need to be on the lookout for counterfeits. Familiarize yourself with the properties of a Zippo. The bottom stamp should display a date or date code, Z I P P O or the current Zippo Logo, manufacturing location, and patent number depending on the year. Many counterfeits have turned up with very poor quality Front Stamps. Take some time to research how the lighters have looked over the years. Clues include the number of hinge barrels, the hinge being welded to the inside or outside, were the edges canned' for that particular year, and the shape and size.

Becoming a Zippo collector is similar to becoming an art collector. There are several regular prints on the market; they may look great so you pick one up for your collection or to display. There are also limited edition prints on the market, as there are with Zippo's. The purchase of a limited edition run is that much rarer and will hold its value far better. Take the time to find designs you like and would be proud to show. With the variety of themes there is a Zippo out there for everyone.

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