Late 19th Century Victorian Silvertone Magic "Pocket Lamp" Cigarette Cigar Lighter

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Description

Late Victorian Pocket Lamp pocket lighter represents an important step in the evolution of modern fire-starting devices. Widely recognized as … Read more Late Victorian Pocket Lamp pocket lighter represents an important step in the evolution of modern fire-starting devices. Widely recognized as one of the very first patented automatic pocket lighters, this mechanical predates the invention of the modern flint mechanism. Rather than relying on flint and steel, this early pocket lighter operated via a specialized internal cap-firing mechanism. Upon pressing the single side-actuated push button, the spring-loaded lid snaps open, simultaneously rotating an internal paper disc coated with small fulminate explosive dots (similar to a toy cap gun). A metal pin strikes the explosive dot, casting a spark directly onto a fuel-soaked cloth wick to ignite the lamp.

In a brass finish that has rubbed off, revealing its steel underneath

Sold as decorative piece.

Engraved : "MAGIC Pocket Lamp, KOOPMAN'S PAT. OCT. 29-89, Magic Introduction Co., SOLE MFRS. NEW YORK"

Measurements: 2.25" Tall X 1.5" Wide X 0.5" Deep

United States, 1890 See less