Flicker of History: Collecting Antique Lighters

There’s something charming about antique lighters that other everyday objects just don’t seem to capture. Each one shows off the style and craftsmanship of the era it came from, which is exactly what makes them so fascinating to collect!

 

At Pacific Antiques Mall, we love helping people explore the world of antiques in person. With dozens of stalls under one roof, you’ll find plenty of unique lighters to examine, compare, and maybe even take home. Here are some tips to keep in mind if you’re interested in looking at antique lighters in particular:

 

Brands of antique lighters

 

The brand name etched on the base will tell you a lot about whether you’re holding a common piece or something collectors will pay for. Zippo antique lighters tend to be highly collectible because of their wartime history and endless design variations. Ronson is another favorite that collectors watch closely, especially their Varaflame and Comet lines. Don’t forget to look for rarer brands like Dunhill, S.T. Dupont, Tiffany, or Evans, since these brands are known for quality and tend to hold their value over time.

 

Scarcity

 

How rare a lighter is determines how much collectors are willing to pay. Mass-produced lighters (even from famous brands) are too easy to find, so look for the earlier models, especially those made before 1920. They’re far less common and tend to hold much higher value.

 

Limited Editions

 

Limited antique lighters like special Dupont lighters or rare Zippo advertising editions are more sought-after because only a small number were made. Numbered editions in particular stand out to collectors and can quickly become the centerpiece of a collection.

 

Condition

 

Pieces that are in great shape always attract more attention from collectors. Even better are lighters that haven’t been used and still have their original box, instructions, or labels. These “mint in box” items are rare and often end up being the most sought-after in any collection.

 

Visit one of our stalls at Pacific Antiques Mall today to find the best antique lighters and unique collectibles for your collection.

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