Leitz Leica M5
The Leica M5 is a 35mm rangefinder camera produced by Leitz, introduced in the early 1970s as the first M-series body to incorporate through-the-lens metering. Its larger body and revised top plate set it apart from earlier and later M models, and at launch it sat at the top of Leitz's rangefinder line.
UK auction hammer results for the M5 are wholesale wholesale levels rather than dealer retail, and the limited data available shows a recent saleroom result of £1,800 in late 2025. With only a single hammer record on file as of today, the price a Leica M5 sells for at auction in 2026 is condition-sensitive and varies with cosmetic state, meter function and whether the body is the two-lug or three-lug variant.
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.
Prices updated: November 2025
| Date | Price | Source | |
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| Nov 2025 | EUR 1,800 | Leitz Auction | |
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Auction: Leitz Auction 47 (Lot A02595) Title: Leica M5 outfit 'Hörzu'
Description:
Interesting set used by Hörzu (German for listen), famous weekly German TV guide based in Hamburg, including a black Leica M5 2 lugs version no.1356680 in good condition, Super-Angulon 3.4/21mm no2292443 modified to be mounted on a M5 with rear cap and hood engraved 'HÖRZU Hamburg', Summicron 2/35mm no.2394041 with hood, both lenses also with 'HÖRZU Hamburg' engravings, with leather strap, together with a 20-26th January 1972 Hörzu magazine and Hörzu 20x30cm painted metal plate. |
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| Nov 2024 | EUR 2,000 | Leitz Auction | |
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Auction: Leitz Auction 45 (Lot A01272) Title: Leica M5 chrome '2 lugs'
Description:
Beautiful early version with only 2 strap lugs, in mint condition and working order, modified M6 finder with 28mm frame, together with matching Summicron 2/50mm 11817 no.2350874, clean and clear optics, with front lens cap, strap, leather case and French instructions. Estimate: EUR 3,200 - EUR 3,600 |
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Frequently asked questions
What is a Leica M5 worth today?
Based on UK auction hammer data, a Leica M5 is worth around £1,800 at recent saleroom level, though the value of any individual example depends heavily on cosmetic condition and whether the meter is fully working.
How much does a Leica M5 sell for at UK auction?
The most recent hammer price on file is £1,800 from November 2025; with only one verified sale in the dataset, buyers should treat this as an indicative price rather than a firm market median.
Are two-lug and three-lug Leica M5 bodies priced differently?
Collectors recognise the two-lug and three-lug versions as distinct variants, and condition plus variant typically drive the price spread seen in auction results.