WW2 Aluminium Italian POW Trench Art Pocket Petrol Lighter – ASMARA 1945

Here on offer is a fine example of a WW2 period aluminium trench art pocket petrol lighter, possibly a late Italian POW piece?

It appears to be made from aircraft grade aluminium, probably a downed WW2 aircraft? The engraving is the same type as I have seen on Italian POW made cigarette cases, such as my items 50355 and 50381.

There where a large number of British run POW camps set up across Africa during WW2 and many of the inmates would make items that could be sold or traded to soldiers for food etc.

On the front it has the design of a palm tree and native hut and the inscription:

ASMARA
1945

ASMARA is the, capital of Eritrea. It is located on the northern tip of the Ethiopian Plateau on the East coast of Africa.

The lighter’s frame is made from a sold piece of aluminium with rounded edges and hinged lid cover.

The aluminium base is held in place by two retaining screws.

All the metal elements and finely machined together, such that you can’t feel the joins!

The lid hinges open to reveal the original lighter wick, and the flint wheel still works meaning the lighter is in full working order.

At the bottom is a large aluminium screw that still retains its thin buffer washer and access allows the lighter to be refuelled.

There is no fuel (petrol) in the lighter, to meet shipping regulations.

The lighter is in excellent condition and will make an impressive and unique addition to any lighter collection.

I have seen another similar lighter on the internet with similar engraving and the name ASMARA, which is on offer at £160!

It measures 1” (2.5cm) wide, 1.9” (4.8cm) high and 0.6” (1.4cm) thick.

It weighs 42g.

Please see my pictures for the details of the condition, which complement this description.

Please see my TERMS OF BUSINESS regarding Deliver Charges and Insurance regarding additional insurance cover, should you require it, BEFORE the item is dispatched.

The responsibility lies with the customer to check with your Customs restrictions that this item can be imported into your country.

Thanks for taking the time to look.

Code: 50410