Gun rifle cameras to gold-plated Leicas – these photo rarities are worth a fortune!

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Leitz Photographica Auction 44 celebrates 70 years of the Leica M system with ultra-rare cameras. Which will fetch the millions this year?

Leitz Auction no 44
(Image credit: Leitz Auction)

If you love Leica then prepare to be amazed at the 44th Leitz Photographica Auction, which will be held on June 08 at Leitz-Park in Wetzlar, focusing on the iconic history of Leica's M range and celebrating 70 years of the Leica M system.

Since its establishment in 2002, this auction house has held biannual events dedicated to vintage cameras and accessories, earning global recognition as a premier source for historically significant photographic equipment. While featuring items from various manufacturers, the auction primarily highlights Leica cameras and lenses.

Rare 1958 Leica MP2 Black Paint model (Image credit: Leitz Auction)

This year's auction centerpiece is a rare 1958 Leica MP2 Black Paint model, one of just six ever produced. This specific camera, with serial number 935509, boasts advanced features like a special electric motor drive, capable of capturing 3.5 pictures per second. Its estimated value comes in at $647,000 - $755,000 / £515,000 -  £600,000 / AU$977,000 - AU$1,140,000, reflecting its unparalleled rarity and historical significance.

Another standout lot is the Leica I Mod A Luxus from the Thirties, serial number 48438, distinguished by its original leather covering and gold-plated body. This exceptionally preserved camera is estimated at $323,000 - $377,000 / £258,000 - £300,000 / AU$489,000 - AU$570,000.  

The Leica NY Rifle (Image credit: Leitz Auction)

Prototype Summilux 1.4/35mm lens (Image credit: Leitz Auction)

Also up for auction is the Leica NY Rifle, a unique camera accessory crafted for wildlife photography, believed to be one of fewer than 15 ever made. Additionally, a prototype Summilux 1.4/35mm lens, featuring distinctive test characteristics, will be auctioned for charity, with all proceeds benefiting Licht ins Dunkel that aids disabled photographers. The estimated value of this special lens is $6,500 - $7,500 / £5,150 - £6,000 / AU$9,800 - AU$11,400.

This auction promises to be an exceptional event celebrating the legacy and innovation of Leica's photographic heritage. Visit the auction website for more information and to see all the lots. 

There are non-Leica lots up for auction as well, such as this Nikon Reflex-Nikkor-C 11/2000mm lens – the largest 35mm Nikkor ever built! (Image credit: Leitz Photographica Auction)

Take a look at the best Leica cameras, along with the best Leica M lenses for rangefinders, and the best Leica SL and best L-Mount lenses for mirrorless viewfinder cameras.

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Sebastian Oakley
Sebastian Oakley
Ecommerce Editor

For nearly two decades Sebastian's work has been published internationally. Originally specializing in Equestrianism, his visuals have been used by the leading names in the equestrian industry such as The Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI), The Jockey Club, Horse & Hound, and many more for various advertising campaigns, books, and pre/post-event highlights.

He is a Fellow of The Royal Society of Arts, holds a Foundation Degree in Equitation Science, and is a Master of Arts in Publishing.  He is a member of Nikon NPS and has been a Nikon user since the film days using a Nikon F5 and saw the digital transition with Nikon's D series cameras and is still to this day the youngest member to be elected into BEWA, The British Equestrian Writers' Association. 

He is familiar with and shows great interest in street, medium, and large format photography with products by Leica, Phase One, Hasselblad, Alpa, and Sinar. Sebastian has also used many cinema cameras from the likes of Sony, RED, ARRI, and everything in between. He now spends his spare time using his trusted Leica M-E or Leica M2 shooting Street photography or general life as he sees it, usually in Black and White.