Antique WWI Trench Lighter – 1916 Austrian-Hungarian Front, R.K. Style

A very interesting antique trench lighter with a fascinating history.

This lighter was found with a metal detector at former battlefield positions connected with the Brusilov Offensive of 1916 in what is now Ukraine.

Its construction is very similar to early Richard Kohn (R.K.) lighters made in Austria. This particular example has no visible maker's mark, but the design and construction are very close to known R.K. trench lighters.

Considering the location where it was found, it was most likely carried by an Austro-Hungarian soldier during the fighting on this front.

The Brusilov Offensive was one of the largest and bloodiest operations of the First World War, making this an especially interesting battlefield-related piece.

The lighter retains all of its original parts. It has simply been cleaned and given a natural patina, preserving its authentic aged appearance.

The lighter is functional and the original wheel and wick mechanism are present.

Please note that there is a crack in the body/case. It does not prevent the lighter from functioning, but it is clearly visible in the photographs and should be taken into consideration. The lighter also has various scratches, marks and signs of age consistent with its history.

You will receive exactly the lighter shown in the photos and video.

Please take a close look at all the photographs and video, as they show the actual condition and details of this unique piece.

An interesting addition to a collection of WWI trench lighters, Austro-Hungarian militaria, early European lighters, Richard Kohn-style lighters or battlefield finds.

Please have a look at my other listings — I regularly have interesting vintage and collectible lighters available.