This autumn, Leitz Photographica will auction the late Pope Francis’ Leica M-A for charity: the most extraordinary lot in its history to date

The late Pope Francis' Leica M-A to be auctioned for charity

This charity lot is a unique Leica M-A camera with a Leica Noctilux-M 1:1.2/50mm ASPH. lens. It was personally presented to the late Pope Francis by Leica Camera AG in 2024. Both the camera and lens bear the serial number 5,000,000. All proceeds from the sale of this lot will be directed to the personal charity institution of the late Pope Francis.

This lot is one of many highlights – including a Leica I Mod. A Luxus from 1929. The Leica MP-114 black paint from 1958. These and other cameras will be auctioned at the Leitz Photographica Auction 47 that takes place on the 22nd of November at the Hotel Imperial in Vienna.

The Leica M-A: an exceptional camera

Over the past 100 years, Leica Camera AG has awarded these exceptional products to distinguished personalities, in recognition of their achievements. In keeping with his commitment to charity and social causes, Pope Francis chose to auction the Leica M-A set. All proceeds will be directed toward helping those in need.

Pope Francis’ Leica M-A uniquely personalized

The unique camera is finished in silver chrome, with a special white covering. It also features white paint on the baseplate, back panel, as well as some of the controls. The special engravings are filled with white, gold, and black paint. The engravings on the camera and lens are yet another highlight. The hot shoe cover is adorned with the Keys of Peter. While the rear of the top plate bears His Holiness Pope Francis’ motto, ‘Miserando atque eligendo’, meaning ‘lowly but chosen.’

Engraved with the coat of arms of the Vatican

The Noctilux lens is finished in chrome, with engravings filled with gold and white paint. The body cap and the lens cap are engraved with the Coat of Arms of the State of Vatican City. Both the camera and the lens are additionally engraved with the year His Holiness Pope Francis received this gift. The camera is inscribed with Roman numerals: A.D. MMXXIV.

Complementing this unique camera is a uniquely exquisite presentation box with a matching key. It also includes a photograph of Pope Francis receiving the camera. Bidding for the set starts at 30,000 Euros, with an estimate of 60,000 to 70,000 Euros.


More:
Leica M-A no.5000000 ‘Pope Francis’Leica MP 114
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