Canon 50/1.8 ltm current value?

Just in the last few weeks there was one in the classifieds here (no longer listed - must have sold?) that was around the $325USD asking mark as I recall. Nice example.
 
One wishes to be able to refer to http://www.antiquecameras.net/canonrflens.html, but it's 2.5 yrs old. Maybe still some use as a guide. Four or five years ago I got a 50/1.8 (black, Canon, not Serenar) with a very nice Canon P hanging off the back of it, for USD 300. This was on eBay, not some lucky boot sale/flea market find. Even if prices have risen some, I find it hard to think the lens alone needs to be $325. But I have not kept close watch on this market...

--Dave
 
Oh, I have an idea for this lens. Its all dependent on condition in the end.

Going appropriate rate is anywhere between $100 and $300. Most in the $195-235 range. They are so susceptible to haze, and that's the catch in pricing. A truly stunning, real mint example is honestly worth $300 (possibly more, depending on the day). Seriously. That's because the lens is a real performer.

Because most have some level of used condition (i.e., not new in the box) the value tends to be lower. With signs of previous use (love?) and no haze/fungus/separation I'd be above $200, possibly up to $260. Most of these lenses, however, have a hint of haze or enough "cleaning marks" to be of concern. Those could still fetch more than $200, but usually just under. Haze, even a little fungus, separation, and the like will drop that price substantially.

Gerry, you're in OR. Check out Pacific Rim Cameras in Salem. They have a website with all their inventory listed. Prices, and usually photos of the item. They are particularly fond of Canon, from the earliest years to today. They tend to have a few 50/1.8 ltm listed at all times. Keep in mind that they are what I call "retail used" prices. Fair for the most part, but nobody getting a deal. Reflects the PNW market well if you keep that in mind. They have a few right now ranging from $135 to $195. Again, I suggest taking a look. There's a description of the lens condition, a photo or two of it, and the asking price. http://www.pacificrimcamera.com/

My Canon 50/1.4 came from PRC and I truly couldn't be happier with it.
 
Yeah, what is it about the design of the lens that makes it so prone to fogging? It's actually easy to get at and clean, but I find myself doing it at least once a year (I have the black version). It's the surface right behind the aperture.
 
Yeah, what is it about the design of the lens that makes it so prone to fogging? It's actually easy to get at and clean, but I find myself doing it at least once a year (I have the black version). It's the surface right behind the aperture.

That is interesting as I have the 1.8 and identical build 2.8 and both of my samples are clear with no signs of any cleaning attempts.
 
Thanks Jeff. I was thinking a bit less.
Gerry

By the other replies -that would seem to be the case. Member rfaspen's post #6 appears to cover the question and the potential range rather well!

My 1.8 came as part of a package deal. I would value my buy-in cost at around the ~$250USD mark for this nice example.
 
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