How to identify the manufacturing date of your Zippo lighter?

Knowing the manufacturing date of your Zippo is very important. Indeed, as a collectible item, the manufacturing date of the Zippo greatly influences its value. The older the lighter, the more valuable it will be. All information regarding the manufacturing date of your Zippo lighter can be found underneath it. There are many dating codes, and they have evolved over time along with the brand's products.

In this article, you will find all the tips to decipher the manufacturing date of your Zippo, and you will thus be able to get an idea of its value.

What is the manufacturing year of my Zippo lighter?

In order to know the manufacturing year of your Zippo lighter, it is necessary to take it out of its case. Once removed, you will see, under the Zippo, the brand logo as well as a letter and two numbers. Thanks to these two pieces of information, you will be able to find the manufacturing year of your Zippo.

What are the numbers and letters inscribed under my Zippo lighter for?

Nowadays, the dating system for Zippo lighters includes a letter and two numbers that correspond to the month and year of manufacture.

• The letters from A to L: They indicate the month of manufacture of the Zippo (A for January, L for December).
• The 2 numbers following the letter correspond to the year of manufacture, for example if you have the number 13 then your Zippo was manufactured in 2013.

However, some limited or special editions do not have the same dating code. Below you will find tables on the identification codes of the standard Zippo lighter or the Zippo Slim lighter.

From July 1986, the slash system is replaced by the year/month code.
The year is noted in Roman characters, the letters designate the months.

At the beginning of 2001, the Roman numerals are replaced by the last two digits of the year.

Whether you are a passionate collector or simply curious to discover the history of your Zippo lighter, knowing its manufacturing date adds a unique touch to this iconic object. To go further and complete your Zippo experience, discover our selection of accessories for Zippo lighters, including wicks, flints and suitable refills.