u/GuardAffectionate734

After collecting multiple different lighters, I've finally gotten a genuine Zippo! I wonder whether this is a custom engraving, since I can't find any examples of a '69 Zippo like this one.

The Serenity Prayer itself is a interesting part of American 20th Century history that's faded out over the years. The prayer was composed by Protestant theologian Reinhold Niebuhr, spreading through the YMCA and used in 12 step recovery programs such as Alcoholics Anonymous.

Restored by yours truly.

I assume this lighter is from the late 40's to early 50's due to the number of chimney holes (models from the 50's had more holes) and the fact that this company engraved on the lighter (Allen Edwards Inc) was founded in 1947.

This lighter was in such a rough shape (rust/corrosion on the inner chimney) + very dirty on the inside of the case. I packed it like a Zippo and the original felt is missing. Could the flickering be part of this lighter? The flame isn't consistent so I tried repacking but the flickering remains the same. I used regular cotton balls to pack it.

Plus after cleaning the flint tube and the flint wheel thoroughly, it can take upwards of 3-4 sparks to get it lighting up. Maybe I need softer flint? Any suggestions?

After finding this lighter in my local thrift store, I decided to refurbish it on a whim. Now I have 6 lighters as a result. 😅

From what I can gather, this promo lighter for Prestolite could date to the early 50s because the Park Sherman insert and the engraved graphic featured in ads at the time.

The sound and feel of this lighter is exquisite.