Worlds Fair Lighter Appraisal

Vintage 1964-1965 New York World's Fair Commemorative Keychain Lighter

This is a rectangular, commemorative pocket lighter featuring a circular medallion from the 1964-1965 New York World's Fair. The lighter body is constructed from a silver-toned metal, likely chrome-plated brass or steel, showing a distinctive engine-turned vertical line texture known as 'pinstriping' on the front face. Centrally mounted is a brass or bronze-toned medallion depicting the iconic Unisphere, the fair's theme center. The text surrounding the Unisphere is partially legible, indicating its origin as a souvenir from the Flushing Meadows event. Physical dimensions appear to be approximately 1.5 inches in height by 1 inch in width, excluding the attached split-ring keychain. The condition shows moderate vintage wear: there is visible tarnishing on the brass medallion, minor surface scratches across the silver-toned body, and typical oxidation consistent with its age (approximately 60 years). The hinge and internal mechanism are not visible, but the presence of the split ring suggests its dual function as a decorative keychain. These types of items were popular mass-produced souvenirs during the mid-20th century, capturing the 'Space Age' aesthetic of the 1960s. The craftsmanship is utilitarian but features decorative flourishes typical of mid-century souvenir lighters produced by manufacturers like Scripto or Zippo-style generic makers of the era.