A pocket lighter with applied art work.  The lighter is made by the Zippo lighter company of Bradford, PA.  The lighter has what is known as a "Town & Country" design applied  to the body.  This is done by hand applying paint to engraved patterns in the body.  Introduced in the 1940's, the application of the paint gradually evolved from painting by hand to silkscreen-type processes through the 1960's.  The later silkscreen versions are often referred to by collectors as "transitional".

The Bulldog was used as a mascot by the United States Marine Corps from 1921.  Originally named King Bulwark, he was adopted by the commandant of the Marine Corps and two-time recipient of the Medal of Honor, Brig. Gen. Smedley D. Butler.  On Oct. 14, 1922, during a formal ceremony, Butler signed the enlistment papers for newly names Jiggs.   The contract length: life!  By 1924, the enterprising bulldog had rocketed up the ladder from private to sergeant major, and had featured in many different roles during his enlisted time.  He was featured in the movie, "Tell it to the Marines" filmed in 1926.  

Jiggs sadly passed away on January 9th, 1927,  buried with full military honors in a satin-lined casket at Quantico.  However, the story does not end there.  Before Jiggs passed away, the mantle of Marine Corps mascot passed to Jiggs II on October 17th, 1926 at an official ceremony!  To this day, the Corps have a Bulldog mascot.

The lighter has the date code on the base for having been made in 1975. The lighter is in "New Old Stock" condition having never been struck or filled before.  The original box and paper guarantee are also present.  A rare and perfect example of a military lighter, now forty five years old.