Abstract: A gas-discharge surge arrester that can be manufactured at a low cost and suitable for automatic bulk processing. The surge arrester includes an insulator which comprises a small ceramic tube. A tin coating is applied to the electrodes, and an annular protective coating is applied to the ceramic insulator having a thickness of at least 1 mm. This protective coating is formed from an acid-resistant and heat-resistant colorant or varnish which is continuous in the axial direction of the surge arrester. The protective coating may form part of the identification of the surge arrester. For example, the identification may be in the form of a reverse imprint in the protective coating. In addition, tin-coated leads can be coupled to the electrodes.