Pope Francis's Leica camera sells for whopping $7.5M at auction
What's the story
A unique Leica camera that once belonged to the late Pope Francis has been sold for an astonishing €6.5 million (approximately $7.5 million). The sale was conducted at the Leica Photographica Auction, with all proceeds going directly to the Pope's personal charity. The camera, a special edition of the Leica M A, was expected to sell for around €60,000-70,000 but far exceeded those expectations due to its unique features and historical significance.
Distinctive design
Unique features of the Pope Francis's Leica camera
The "Pope Francis" edition of the Leica M A is a fully mechanical 35mm film camera, known for its simplicity and vintage appeal. What sets it apart from regular models are its unique features, including an exclusive serial number (5,000,000) that only special individuals get. The body comes in a distinctive white finish with symbolic engravings such as the Keys of Peter on the flash cover and Pope Francis's motto "Miserando atque eligendo" on the top plate.
Symbolic engravings
Vatican's Coat of Arms featured on the camera
The camera also features the Coat of Arms of Vatican City on both its lens cap and body cap. Even the Noctilux lens that comes with this special edition has custom gold and white-filled engravings. Its presentation box is also decorated with the Vatican Coat of Arms, adding to its value as a collector's item.
Auction excitement
Bidding war ensues at the auction
Leica gifted this special camera to Pope Francis, but it is unclear if he ever used it. However, its association with Pope Francis and its unique features sparked a fierce bidding war at the auction. Leica officials said it was one of the most thrilling contests they had ever seen, making this sale a record-breaking event for charity auctions of Leica cameras.