I acquired a old Zippo (circa 1938-1941) - according the Zippo folks. Funny story - I was the consultant removing an old abandoned underground gasoline tank near Pittsburgh. After accessing the tank, I found the lighter in the sludge at the bottom. Someone was likely very unhappy at their loss.
I dropped it off in Bradford since I have a client there. The kind Zippo folks did their best to clean it and returned it with a note stating they no longer had parts to return it to service. They even sent me a new replacement lighter.
I am not a collector and don't really have a use for a Zippo. Is there any value in these older ones, even in rough shape? I would just put any proceeds in my grandson's college (or ammo?) fund.
I have lousy internet service at home so I don't login in frequently. If anyone is interested in conversing, please send me a text and email address to 814.449.1768. Thanks and be well. DJB