Identify the Production Date from the Bottom Stamp
Zippo began adding date codes to lighter bottoms in the mid-1950s. Originally used for quality control, these marks have become an important resource for collectors. Earlier lighters require a closer look at their appearance, model and patent markings.
Current Date Codes
- The letters A through L represent January through December.
- The two-digit number identifies the year of manufacture; for example, 14 means 2014.
The Zippo logo on the bottom has also changed over time. Use the date-code charts below for regular and Slim® lighters, and avoid dating a lighter from a single marking alone.
