Kodak No. 3A Folding Brownie Camera Value Guide

The Kodak No. 3A Folding Brownie is a significant piece of photographic history, famous for popularizing the postcard-sized 122 roll film format. Its striking combination of vibrant red leather bellows and a dark wood interior makes it a highly sought-after display piece for early 20th-century camera collectors.

What Is Kodak No. 3A Folding Brownie Camera Worth?

The typical price range for Kodak No. 3A Folding Brownie Camera is $85 - $95 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 red bellows, as they are prone to light leaks and leather degradation over time.
• The presence of original nickel plating on the brass components and the lack of oxidation on the aluminum body.
• Operational status of the shutter mechanism and the clarity of the glass optics.
• Completeness of the unit, including the original wooden film spools and the integrity of the leather carrying handle.

How to Identify Kodak No. 3A Folding Brownie Camera?

• Look for the distinctive red leather bellows, which were primarily used on models produced before the mid-1910s.
• Verify the 'No. 3A Folding Brownie' nameplate typically found on the front standard or inside the removable back.
• Inspect the interior for a dark wood finish and aluminum construction, characteristic of the 1908-1915 production era.
• Check for the presence of nickel-plated brass hardware and the original glass lens assembly.

History of Kodak No. 3A Folding Brownie Camera

Introduced by Eastman Kodak in 1908, the No. 3A Folding Brownie was designed to bring the postcard-sized format to the mass market. It utilized 122 roll film, which allowed photographers to create large 3.25 by 5.5 inch negatives, perfectly sized for contact printing onto postcards. The distinctive red bellows were a hallmark of early Kodak production before the industry transitioned almost exclusively to black leather in the 1910s.