Scripto Appraisal

Vintage Scripto Vu-Lighter Advertising Lighter

This is a vintage Scripto Vu-Lighter, a classic mid-century mechanical pocket lighter known for its transparent fuel reservoir. The item features a chrome-plated metal top with a hinged cap and a matching chrome base. The central body consists of a black horizontally-ribbed plastic grip section and a clear acrylic chamber below. Contained within the clear reservoir is an advertising insert for 'The Patterson & Sons Welding & Machine Co.' located in Ashland, Ohio, which includes a vintage five-digit telephone number (Ph. 28351). The lighter utilizes a side-mounted fuel button. Physically, the item shows signs of age-appropriate wear including surface scratches on the chrome and fine scuffing on the acrylic. The internal advertising card appears slightly yellowed, consistent with vintage paper or cardstock from the 1950s or 1960s. The construction is sturdy, exhibiting the high-quality industrial design typical of American-made utility items of the period. This specific model was popular as a promotional give-away due to the customizable insert and the ability to view the remaining fuel level.