Kodak No. 2 Folding Autographic Brownie Camera Value Guide

The Kodak No. 2 Folding Autographic Brownie is a landmark of early 20th-century photography, produced in the United States between 1915 and 1926. It is highly collectible for its innovative 'Autographic' door, which allowed photographers to record metadata directly onto the film margin, a revolutionary step in making photography accessible to the masses.

What Is Kodak No. 2 Folding Autographic Brownie Camera Worth?

The typical price range for Kodak No. 2 Folding Autographic Brownie Camera is $80 - $120 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 leatherette and the integrity of the bellows, which should be free of light leaks.
• Presence of the original metal stylus, which is frequently missing from surviving examples.
• The functionality of the shutter mechanism and the clarity of the glass lens.
• Rarity of specific lens and shutter combinations used during its 1915-1926 production run.

How to Identify Kodak No. 2 Folding Autographic Brownie Camera?

• Look for the small metal 'Autographic' door located on the back of the camera body.
• Verify the 'No. 2 Folding Autographic Brownie' nameplate usually found on the front or inside the door.
• Check for the distinctive black leatherette covering over the metal body and the characteristic bellows mechanism.
• Confirm the presence of the original metal stylus used for writing on the film through the back door.

History of Kodak No. 2 Folding Autographic Brownie Camera

Introduced in 1915, the Kodak No. 2 Folding Autographic Brownie was a popular and affordable folding camera. It featured Kodak's innovative 'Autographic' feature, which allowed users to write notes directly onto the negative's margin through a small door on the back of the camera. This feature was a significant advancement, enabling photographers to easily record details like date, subject, and location, providing valuable context to their images for generations to come. This camera was part of the broader Brownie line, known for making photography accessible to the masses.