These grades show how worn a lighter is. They follow rules used for years to keep things clear when buying, selling, or talking about lighters. Grading helps with consistency in the buying, selling, and advertising of collectible lighters.
UNUSED GRADES
The term UNUSED refers to a piece which has never been used. It has never been filled with fluid, fired or struck, or used. The unused grades range from a perfect A+ to an unused but showing signs of wear B.
Unused lighters can be divided into four major categories:
A+
MIB (10) STILL SEALED.Mint in box. LIKE NEW. The highest grade available. Where appropriate, the lighter is still inside its OMP (Original Manufacturer's Packaging).
The orange seal is intact. Such a piece on close inspection shows NO scratches, dents, or other evidence of handling or contact. It is literally like the day it was made.
A
MINT (9).LIKE NEW. The lighter is like new and has the original orange seal still intact but is lacking its original packaging. Otherwise C10.
B+
UNUSED NEAR MINT (8). NOT SEALED. Has some distracting contact marks or blemishes in prime focal areas. Luster may be impaired.
B
UNUSED VERY FINE (7). NEVER STRUCK. All original parts. Refers to a lighter which has a moderate number of scratches on its surface. A few minor edge nicks may be present, although they must not be of a serious nature. Surface may be spotted or lack some luster.
USED GRADES
Lighters that have been carried and lit are USED. They have been in circulation, meaning they have been handled, pocketed, and carried, sometimes for decades. As a result, they are worn to one degree or another. Collectors have established the following grades for rating just how used a lighter actually is:
C+
USED FVF (6) — FINE VERY FINE.
The wick has been lit, and the lighter has been carried and used, but it remains in excellent overall condition. Minimal wear is visible on the surface, and the insert may show signs of fluid use but is otherwise in good condition. Specific details on wear and fluid use should be noted.
C
USED FINE (5) — FIRED.
The lighter shows small traces of wear on the highest points, indicating regular use. The insert may have residue from fluid, and the wick may show signs of use. Specific information on the condition of the insert, fluid residue, and surface wear should be itemized.
C-
USED VERY GOOD (2) — NOTICEABLE WEAR.
Wear is evident on nearly all high points, with at least half of the original mint luster still present. The insert likely shows clear signs of fluid use and wear, and the lighter may have minor dents or scratches across its surface.
D
USED GOOD (1.5) — HEAVILY WORN.
This grade reflects heavy overall wear, with most design details worn down. The insert shows significant use, likely with fluid stains, a used wick, and overall signs of extensive handling. Luster is generally only seen in protected areas.
D-
USED FAIR (1) — FIRED AND WORN.
The lighter is heavily worn, with the insert and case showing significant signs of use. It has been filled, fired, and carried extensively, resulting in a well-worn appearance. All original parts are present, but the condition reflects heavy use.
F
POOR (0.5) — JUNK.
The worst possible grade, is where the lighter is rusty, incomplete, and may be missing parts. The insert is likely damaged, with severe wear or rust. Such lighters are typically used for parts rather than as collectibles.