Vintage 1966 ZIPPO USS SAINT PAUL CA-73 Navy Lighter - MINT NOS Flawless Enamel NO BRASSING. i have a museum-grade example of a1966 USS Saint Paul (CA-73) Zippo lighter. This piece is a remarkable 'time capsule' survivor. also a small town, PA tavern custom one-time run Zippo. MAKE OFFER
Hello, i have a1966 USS St Paul CA-73, Patent #2517191, Zippo in "type-print" on the bottom, w/the enamel "Fighting Saints" crest, it has the original asbestos wick, has been fired but not much soot in the stack, the lid and hinge work as new, zero brassing anywhere, the enamel is flawless (which from what i have read is what makes this so rare and special, the flint tube is clear not welded as it was stored properly, no striking marks on the screw, and the original insert with matching Patent #251791 is in amazing condition as well; there are no dings, gouges, or dents. this is remarkable as this lighter was almost certainly ship canteen purchased and is in historically prestigious condition for being in a salty, humid, tough environment on-ship. this piece is near mint. 1966 for Zippo was historic as is the USS St Paul one of the most historic and revered ships in history and the only one to do a few things; fight in three battles, fired more rounds than any other cruiser, fired the last rounds of either the Korean or Vietnam Wars as well. all my research says there is only 2-4 that come to sale per year globally, at most, more likely 1-2 come tosale globally each year. the flawless enamel crest is what seems to place this in the 99th+ percentile comparably speaking. one site said it is a museum piece without question as mostpieces such as this are heavily used, worn, with obvious signs. i cannot find any recent sales for matching piece and condition. if anyone can guide me i want to find a collector, a veteran, or anyone they may know what my next step should be regarding this near impossible find. thanks in advance. i am very grateful for ALL serious and knowledgeable replies and any comments as well. P.S.- my phone is 13 years old and runs on Android 4.4.4 so the pics do not do this survivor any justice! NOTE: the dots on the crest & the mark on the "U" in U.S.S. are not on the piece, it is my antique camera.
