Kodak Brownie Junior Six-20 Value Guide

Vintage Brownie Junior Six-16 Camera Art Deco Kodak Mid Century 1930's -40s | eBay
Kodak Brownie Junior Six-20
Estimated Value
$20 – $30
Period
1934-1942
Origin
United States
Materials
Metal, cardboard, glass, faux leatherette
Category
Kodak camera

The Kodak Brownie Junior Six-20 is a quintessential Art Deco box camera that played a pivotal role in making photography accessible to the American public between 1934 and 1942. Its distinctive geometric faceplate and simple metal construction represent a significant era in Eastman Kodak's history of democratizing the medium.

What Is Kodak Brownie Junior Six-20 Worth?

The typical price range for Kodak Brownie Junior Six-20 is $20 - $30 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

  • Physical condition of the faux leatherette, as the cardboard and metal base can be prone to peeling or rust.
  • Clarity of the glass lens and the functional state of the simple rotary shutter mechanism.
  • Presence of the original carrying handle, which is often missing or brittle on these vintage units.
  • Overall aesthetic appeal of the Art Deco faceplate, with higher value placed on examples free of heavy scratches or oxidation.

How to Identify Kodak Brownie Junior Six-20?

  • Check the front faceplate for the specific Art Deco geometric patterns unique to the Junior Six-20 model.
  • Verify the camera body is constructed from metal and cardboard covered in a black faux leatherette material.
  • Look for the 'Brownie Junior Six-20' branding typically found on the handle or embossed into the camera body.
  • Confirm the presence of two brilliant viewfinders intended for both vertical and horizontal compositions.

History of Kodak Brownie Junior Six-20

The Brownie camera series, introduced by Eastman Kodak in 1900, was instrumental in popularizing photography by making it accessible and affordable for the general public. The Brownie Junior Six-20, a later iteration, continued this tradition with its simple operation and distinctive Art Deco design, reflecting the aesthetic trends of its era. These cameras were marketed as easy-to-use devices for casual photographers, allowing millions to capture everyday moments.

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