Kodak Brownie No. 2 Box Camera Value Guide

The Kodak Brownie No. 2 is a cornerstone of photographic history, credited with bringing affordable snapshots to the general public between 1901 and 1935. Constructed from cardboard and synthetic leather, its simple box design and association with popular cartoon characters made it a global cultural phenomenon.

What Is Kodak Brownie No. 2 Box Camera Worth?

The typical price range for Kodak Brownie No. 2 Box Camera is $30 - $50 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The physical condition of the synthetic leather covering, specifically looking for peeling or 'red rot' common in early models.
• The presence of the original carrying handle and the clarity of the two glass viewfinders.
• Operational status of the simple rotary shutter and the cleanliness of the internal meniscus lens.
• Rarity of the specific variant, as millions were produced in various colors and materials like aluminum in later years.

How to Identify Kodak Brownie No. 2 Box Camera?

• Check for the 'No. 2 Brownie' branding typically found on the interior or the metal film winding key.
• Verify the construction materials, which should consist of a sturdy cardboard body covered in black imitation leather with metal hardware.
• Inspect the film compartment to ensure it is designed for 120 roll film, a standard introduced specifically for this model.
• Look for the two distinct viewfinders located on the top and side for both portrait and landscape orientations.

History of Kodak Brownie No. 2 Box Camera

The Kodak Brownie camera, first introduced in 1900, revolutionized photography by making it accessible to the masses. Named after popular cartoon characters, the Brownie was simple to operate and inexpensive, creating a boom in amateur photography. The No. 2 model, released in 1901, was one of the most successful, selling millions of units and cementing Kodak's place in photographic history.