Kodak Brownie Flash Six-20 Value Guide

The Kodak Brownie Flash Six-20 is a landmark in amateur photography as Kodak's first box camera to feature built-in synchronization for a flash holder. Produced between 1940 and 1946, its striking vertical Art Deco design and detachable circular flash unit make it a quintessential piece of mid-century Americana.

What affects the value of Kodak Brownie Flash Six-20?

• The presence and condition of the original detachable circular flash unit significantly impacts the $45-$50 price range.
• Cosmetic preservation of the leatherette covering and the clarity of the glass lens and viewfinders.
• Mechanical functionality of the shutter and the integrity of the internal flash synchronization pins.
• Completeness of the set, including the original box, manual, or period-correct 620 film spools.

How to Identify Kodak Brownie Flash Six-20?

• Look for the prominent detachable circular flash unit mounted to the side or top of the metal body.
• Verify the 'Brownie Flash Six-20' branding typically found on the front faceplate or near the viewfinder.
• Check for the distinctive vertical Art Deco styling and the leatherette-covered metal construction characteristic of the 1940-1946 era.
• Confirm the presence of the internal synchronization pins designed specifically for the Kodak Flash Holder.

History of Kodak Brownie Flash Six-20

Introduced in 1940, the Brownie Flash Six-20 was Kodak's first box camera designed with built-in synchronization for a flash holder. It reflected the transition from professional-only flash photography to the amateur market, allowing families to take indoor photos easily for the first time. Production continued through 1946, making it a staple of wartime and post-war American photography.