Abstract: This invention relates to batteries with improved shelf life. When a relatively high resistance element is connected across the terminals of a battery, the resulting low current drain inhibits the self discharge of the battery and thus improves the shelf life. The resistance element can be built into the battery or mounted externally. The invention also relates to a battery-operated article, such as a flashlight, having a high resistance load built into the article to contact the terminals of the battery to provide a low current drain when the article is not being used.