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Rare Vintage Vietnam War USAF 56th Air Commando Wing NCO Open Mess Gas Lighter – IM Corona "Ballade" (Made in Japan)
Item Overview:
Up for sale is an extremely rare and highly collectible Vietnam War-era US Air Force pocket lighter marked "56TH AIR COMMANDO WING NCO OPEN MESS".
The 56th Air Commando Wing (later designated the 56th Special Operations Wing) operated out of Nakhon Phanom Royal Thai Air Force Base (NKP) during the Vietnam War, executing critical clandestine, search-and-rescue (SAR), and special operations missions in Southeast Asia.
Mechanism & Manufacturer:
Manufacturer: IM Corona (Stamped "IM Corona" and "Ballade" on bottom base)
Country of Origin: Made in Japan
Type: Vintage Butane / Gas Lighter with Exposed Mechanical Lift Action
Features: Built-in bottom fill valve, flame adjustment wheel, and spare flint compartment screw.
Condition & Functionality:
Mechanics & Ignition: Working/Sparks. The spring action, lift-arm, and roller mechanism function smoothly, and the spark wheel throws strong sparks.
Gas Leak Note: Has a butane leak. While the mechanical spark mechanism works and lighter will light and hold flame, the internal valve/gasket will require a fresh O-ring or valve seal replacement to hold gas pressure properly. Sold as-is for restoration, display, or repair.
Cosmetics: In excellent vintage condition with crisp, sharp lettering on the front housing. Minor authentic pocket age wear and surface patina. Please review all high-resolution photos for exact condition.
Collector Value:
Unit-marked lighters from Air Commando and Special Operations Wings operating out of Thailand during the Vietnam War are among the most sought-after USAF militaria pieces. A standout addition to any Vietnam War collection, USAF display, or vintage IM Corona lighter collection.
Ships dry with no gas in accordance with USPS postal guidelines.
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Conflict: Vietnam (1961–1975)
Branch: US Air Force / USAF Special Operations
Unit: 56th Air Commando Wing / Special Operations Wing
Theme: Militaria / Tobacciana
Type: Gas / Butane Lighter
Maker: IM Corona "Ballade"
Country/Region of Manufacture: Japan
Original/Reproduction: Original Period Item
