Abstract: An engine ignition system connectible to a source of electrical energy and including an ignition coil and a timing device for repetitively and alternately providing first and second timing signals with the interval between adjacent timing signals being related to engine speed. The ignition system is responsive to the first timing signal for providing a triggering signal a variable interval after the first timing signal with the variable interval reducing with increases in engine speed. The ignition system includes a switching device which is responsive to the triggering signal and the second timing signal for completing a circuit from the source of electrical energy through the coil to charge the coil. The switching device is responsive to the second of the first timing signals to open the circuit to discontinue the charging of the coil.