Mid-Eastern Police Academy Custom Engraved Chrome/Silver Lighter
Cigarette Case · Zippo Manufacturing Company, founded in 1932 in Bradford, Pennsylvania, USA. Renowned globally for its windproof lighters and lifetime guarantee.
Pattern: Custom promotional/award line with laser-etched or machine-engraved badge motif for the Mid-Eastern Police Academy.
Type
Cigarette Case
Maker
Zippo Manufacturing Company, founded in 1932 in Bradford, Pennsylvania, USA. Renowned globally for its windproof lighters and lifetime guarantee.
Material
Chrome-plated brass (commonly referred to as chrome finish, often collected alongside sterling or silver-plated novelty items).
Dimensions
Standard pocket lighter dimensions: approx. 2.2 inches length x 1.5 inches width x 0.5 inches thickness; weight is approximately 55-60 grams.
Description
A classic flip-top windproof pocket lighter featuring a gleaming high-polish chrome finish. The front face is cleanly engraved with a detailed law enforcement badge belonging to the Mid-Eastern Police Academy. The iconic design includes the traditional chimney insert, internal cotton wadding, and the unmistakable mechanical hinge that makes this style universally recognizable.
Key Features
Windproof design, custom departmental insignia engraving, high-polish chrome surface, and standard Zippo-style mechanical insert.
Material & Composition
Chrome-plated brass (commonly referred to as chrome finish, often collected alongside sterling or silver-plated novelty items).
Finish & Decoration
High polish chrome finish on the body and lid with machine engraving/etching depicting a detailed police shield emblem bearing the text 'MID-EASTERN POLICE ACADEMY'.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Bottom stamp typically includes the Zippo logo, patent numbers, and date/month codes indicating production year (visible upon physical inspection of the base).
Construction Details
Machine-stamped brass case with hinged lid, interior cam spring mechanism, windproof insert chimney with 16 holes, and riveted external hinge.
Functional Features
Flip-top lid with audible click, cam-lever windproof chimney insert, cotton packing with wick, flint wheel ignition, and removable fuel reservoir base.
Handle & Grip Details
Rectangular case with rounded corners, smooth high-polish metallic grip, and mechanical hinge activation via top thumb movement.
Craftsmanship Details
Precision stamped brass housing with uniform chrome electroplating and clean, computer-guided or pantograph machine engraving.
Authentication Indicators
Standard proportions, correct chimney hole count (16 holes), and distinctive interior rivet placement consistent with authentic manufactured lighter bodies.
Origin & Manufacturing
Bradford, Pennsylvania, United States, manufactured by the Zippo Manufacturing Company.
Era & Period
Modern / Late 20th to Early 21st Century (c. 1970s-2000s depending on exact date codes on the base).
Age Estimate
Estimated late 20th century, c. 1980-2000, determined by the modern lighter insert style and sharp machine-engraving technique.
Cultural Significance
Reflects the tradition of commemorative gifts given to graduates of specialized training institutions, serving both a practical function and acting as a badge of professional pride.
Condition Notes
Very Good condition. Surface shows minimal micro-scratches consistent with light handling and storage, but the chrome is bright and the engraving is crisp and legible.
Value Estimate
Market value ranges between $25 to $75 USD, heavily dependent on the specific collector demand for law enforcement memorabilia and the exact manufacturing date code.
Care & Maintenance
Wipe with a soft microfiber cloth to remove fingerprints. Use standard lighter fluid and flints for maintenance. Avoid abrasive cleaners on the chrome surface.
Similar Pieces
Standard high-polish chrome Zippo lighters, commemorative military service lighters, and custom-engraved promotional pocket lighters.
Interesting Facts
Custom-engraved lighters featuring police academies, military units, and corporate logos were widely used as graduation gifts, promotional items, or commemorative tokens throughout the mid-to-late 20th century.