Asahi Pentax P30
The Asahi Pentax P30 is a 35mm single-lens reflex camera aimed at the entry-level end of the manual-focus SLR market when it was introduced in the mid-1980s. It was positioned as an affordable, straightforward body for beginners and students rather than as a professional tool.
At UK auction in 2026, the P30 sits firmly at the budget end of used SLR pricing: recorded hammer results range from about £20 to £32, with the two logged sales averaging in the mid-£20s. Because these are saleroom wholesale prices rather than dealer retail, today a tidy P30 typically sells for a low two-figure sum, and condition, working meter and the presence of a usable lens are the main factors that move the price within that narrow band.
Sales History
Prices shown are UK auction hammer results — the wholesale level achieved in the saleroom. Neither buyer’s nor seller’s commission is included. Dealer and retail asking prices are typically higher.
| Date | Price | Source | |
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| Jan 2025 | £20 | Special Auction Services | |
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Auction: Photographica & Cameras Auction (Lot 664) Title: Two Pentax P30 SLR Cameras
Description:
Two Pentax P30 SLR Cameras, one with working shutter, responsive meter, responsive in auto, other shutter not working, meter responsive, with |
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| Dec 2022 | £25 | David Duggleby | |
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Auction: Collectors & Clearance (Lot 5086) Title: Pentax P30 SLR camera with SMC Pentax-A 1:1.7 50mm lens, Sigma Super-Wide II 1:2,8 lens an...
Description:
Pentax P30 SLR camera with SMC Pentax-A 1:1.7 50mm lens, Sigma Super-Wide II 1:2,8 lens an... |
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| Aug 2020 | £32 | Harper Field Auctions | |
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Auction: Buying & Selling (Lot 19) Title: Pentax P30 SLR camera with Takumar-A 28-80mm 1:3.5-4.5 and Hanimex 60-300mm 1:4.0-5.6 lenses,
Description:
Pentax P30 SLR camera with Takumar-A 28-80mm 1:3.5-4.5 and Hanimex 60-300mm 1:4.0-5.6 lenses, |
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| Jan 2016 | £30 | Harper Field Auctions | |
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Auction: Buying & Selling (Lot 746) Title: A Pentax P30 SLR camera with 70 - 210mm 1:4 - 5.
Description:
A Pentax P30 SLR camera with 70 - 210mm 1:4 - 5. |
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Frequently asked questions
What is an Asahi Pentax P30 worth today?
Based on UK auction hammer results, a P30 is typically worth around £20–£32, with the exact value depending on cosmetic condition, whether the meter works and whether a lens is included.
How much does a Pentax P30 sell for at auction?
Recent UK auction sales show the P30 selling for roughly £20 at the low end and about £32 at the higher end, placing it among the cheapest usable 35mm SLRs on the market.
Is the Pentax P30 a good value beginner SLR?
For its current price it offers a low-cost route into 35mm SLR photography, but buyers should factor in the cost of film, processing and possible light-seal replacement when judging overall value.