Zippo Windproof Lighter, HMS Ark Royal Last Deployment Commemorative, 1978

A vintage Zippo windproof pocket lighter manufactured by the Zippo Manufacturing Company in Bradford, Pennsylvania. This single metal unit features a polished chrome finish and serves as a commemorative piece for the British aircraft carrier HMS Ark Royal (R09). The front of the case is decorated with a multi-colour enamel crest of the vessel, flanked by the inscription “LAST DEPLOYMENT 1978,” marking the final year of the ship’s service before decommissioning. A distinctive gold-tone graphic is applied to the interior side of the case, depicting a ship’s propeller alongside the text “”X” UNIT.” The base of the lighter bears the authentic manufacturer’s mark “BRADFORD, PA. ZIPPO ®” with the date code slashes “// //” specifically identifying the year of production as 1978. This item represents a significant piece of naval militaria, linking the iconic American lighter brand with a historic milestone in British maritime history.