zippo lighter identification codes sorted by

relevance

Originally this was intended as a quality control record, so that lighters returned for repair could be identified as to when they were manufactured and if, for example, a number of lighters were returned with the same fault then Zippo could identify a possible defect in the manufacturing process or even a supplier of one of the components.

They were also taller than the current models.

The letters A through L on the left of the Zippo logo still represent the month of manufacture.

We've included a key to the code on the next pages.

These were black crackle WW II models.

1942 - Because of the war and unavailability of copper and brass, lighters were made from low grade steel.

Internal hinge with 4 barrels: 1941 replica• Most lighters fabricated between 1933 and 1957 can be identified by style and model and the patent or patent-pending marks.

1946 - Due to shortages of chrome and brass after WW2, lighters were produced from unchromed nickel silver.

In 1956, note that one dot has been removed from the left side.