Check a Leica serial number: camera model and year
This finder uses only our stored reference table “Serial Numbers Leica Cameras”. It does not combine, extend or estimate model ranges. Lens serial numbers are not included.
Enter your Leica camera’s serial number
Full stops, spaces and prefixes such as “Nr.” or “SN” are ignored.
Identify a Leica camera by serial number
For many classic Leica cameras, the serial number is an important clue to the model and production period. Older screw-mount Leicas and different M-series models can look similar, with only small details setting them apart. A serial number can help identify a Leica I, II, III, M2, M3, M4, M5, M6 or another model.
Find a Leica camera’s production year
The finder checks the stored serial-number ranges and returns the recorded model, year or production period, and matching range. It is a starting point for collectors, owners, sellers and people who have inherited an older Leica and want to identify it.
Where is the serial number on a Leica?
The position varies by series. On many classic screw-mount Leicas and early M models, it is clearly visible on the top plate. Later models may have it elsewhere. Use the camera body’s serial number, not a number from a lens or accessory.
Distinguishing the Leica M3, M2, M4 and M6
A serial number is especially useful when an M-series camera has no accompanying papers, original packaging or receipt. The model name alone often does not establish its age. The serial-number range can indicate the recorded production period. Special editions, finishes and individual production batches may be listed separately.
Identifying screw-mount and early Leica cameras
Early Leicas can be more difficult to identify. The Leica I, II, III and their variants were produced over many years, sometimes in small batches or special versions. Checking the serial number carefully is useful before valuing, selling or cataloguing a camera.
What if there is no match?
If the number is outside the stored ranges, the finder deliberately makes no guess. First check that you have read the complete number correctly. For rare variants, conversions or cameras with replacement parts, photos of the front, top and body markings may help with identification.
Sell a Leica or have a collection assessed
Condition, working order, originality, lenses, accessories and completeness all matter when valuing a Leica. For a complete kit, collection or estate, the combination of equipment matters too. A few overview photos and the available model and serial numbers are usually enough for an initial assessment.
Sell cameras, lenses and photographic equipment
Analog Lounge GmbH buys cameras, lenses, complete collections, inherited equipment and larger lots from Germany, the EU and Switzerland. We consider film and digital cameras, classic lenses and other quality photographic equipment. Collection may be possible for larger quantities, by arrangement.