Leica M3 Queen Elisabeth

LOT
130

Current Bid
€60,000
Total bids: (1)


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This item is subject to margin scheme taxation and the premium is 24% if it remains in the EU
Product number: A02019
Starting Price €60,000
Estimate €90,000 – 120,000
Condition : A-
Manufacture Year : 1958
LEITZ AUCTION
47
Leica M3 Queen Elisabeth

On October 20, 1958, Federal President Theodor Heuss of the Federal Republic of Germany arrived in the United Kingdom, marking the first official state visit by a German head of state since the end of World War II. The four-day visit, which concluded on October 23, was a symbolic step toward post-war reconciliation. One of the most notable moments was President Heuss’s formal meeting with Queen Elizabeth II.
To mark the occasion, Leica was commissioned to produce a special edition of its M3 camera as a diplomatic gift for the Queen. This unique model featured the royal cypher “E II R” engraved on the top plate, with a commemorative inscription on the base plate reading:
“Ihrer Majestät Königin Elisabeth II – 20. Oktober 1958 – Theodor Heuss”
The camera offered here is the original backup unit, made alongside the gifted version and retained by the Leica factory in case a replacement was ever needed. It has remained in excellent condition and is fully operational. Interestingly, it comes fitted with a close-focus Summicron lens that lacks a serial number, suggesting it may be a prototype or pre-production sample.

LEITZ AUCTION
47