Overview
This is a classic windproof Zippo lighter featuring a deeply etched and color-filled design commemorating Naval Air Station Miramar.
Preliminary identification
Zippo Lighter, NAS Miramar 'Master Jet Air Station' Commemorative
Photo reference
1 uploaded photo
Story
In the 1950s, the skies over San Diego changed forever as the roar of piston engines gave way to the scream of the jet age. This lighter likely belonged to a sailor or aviator stationed at NAS Miramar during its most iconic era—the period when it earned the nickname 'Fightertown USA.'
Maker / Origin
George G. Blaisdell founded Zippo in 1932, famously obsessed with creating a lighter that worked 'every time.'
Condition & Value
The lighter shows significant 'brassing' on the lid and edges where the chrome plating has worn away to reveal the yellow brass beneath. There are numerous surface scratches consistent with heavy pocket use. This honest wear confirms its age and history but places it in 'good' rather than 'excellent' condition.
Full Research
See what it's actually worth.
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Market Analysis
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Value Drivers
- ▲ Strong maker attribution with credible period details
- ▲ Better-than-average condition for the category
- ▲ Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact
Concerns
- ▼ Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
- ▼ Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
- ▼ Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Comparable Sales
5 compsRegional auction
· Jun 2024Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
$1,280
SOLD
Dealer archive
· Mar 2024Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
$1,450
SOLD
Marketplace sale
· Jan 2024Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
$980
SOLD
Estate platform
· Oct 2023Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
$1,150
SOLD
Auction result
· Aug 2023Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.
$1,375
SOLD