expensive piece of history: the Leica 0-Series Camera No. 112 sells for 7.2 million euros
Prototype Leica Camera Auctioned for an Astounding 7.2 Million Euros - Record-breaking Leica prototype camera sold for €7.2 million at auction
You might be wondering, what's the big deal about a camera selling for over 7 million euros? Well, it's no ordinary camera. We're talking about the Leica 0-Series Camera No. 112, one of only a handful of remaining prototypes that paved the way for the iconic Leica I.
During a recent auction, this precious artifact from the annals of photographic history found a new home, fetching an impressive sum of 7.2 million euros. Making it the second most expensive camera ever sold[1][4].
background on the Leica 0-Series Cameras
This series of cameras, produced in 1923, laid the groundwork for the development of the Leica I – the first mass-produced 35mm camera. They're considered milestones in photographic history, transforming photography from a luxury pastime to a widespread form of photojournalism[1].
These Leica 0-Series Cameras are scarce, with only a dozen or so known to exist, making them highly sought-after collector's items[1]. The No. 112, auctioned in 2025, was of particular significance as it was delivered to the ingenious mind behind the Leica camera design, Oskar Barnack[1].
the Leica 0-Series record holder
If you're keeping track, you might remember that in 2022, a Leica 0-Series Camera No. 105 was auctioned for a staggering 14.4 million euros, making it the most expensive camera ever[1][4]. Now, we have the No. 112 joining the ranks as the second most expensive camera ever sold[1][4].
Intriguingly, these exorbitant prices reflect the immense historical impact and rarity of these pioneering cameras. As you may guess, they played a pivotal role in the evolution of modern photography[1].
the legacy of the Leica Camera AG
Notably, this high-profile sale occurred during the centennial celebrations of Leica Camera AG, coinciding with the 100-year anniversary of the first mass-produced 35mm camera's presentation at the spring fair in Leipzig.
In the fiscal year 2024/2025, Leica Camera AG reported a record turnover of approximately 600 million euros, with plans to launch a smartphone featuring Leica optics in the European market soon. In honor of their anniversary, they are hosting exhibitions and other events[1].
In conclusion, it's clear that the Leica 0-Series Cameras symbolize the very essence of photographic history, with their unmatched rarity and historical significance driving their record-breaking auction prices. While the No. 105 remains the most expensive camera ever sold, the Leica 0-Series Camera No. 112 claiming the title of the second most expensive camera ever sold is a standout achievement for this remarkable collection[1][4].
[1] wikipedia (2025). Leica 0-Series. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leica_0-series[4] wikipedia (2025). History of the Leica Camera. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leica_camera#History_of_the_Leica_camera
The Commission, being the European Parliament, has played a significant role in the historic sale of the Leica 0-Series Camera No. 112, as it was auctioned during the centennial celebrations of Leica Camera AG. As technology continues to evolve, one can only wonder if future gadgets might also command such astronomical prices due to their historical significance.
