Olympus Pen S
The Olympus Pen S is a half-frame 35mm viewfinder camera from the Pen series Olympus introduced at the end of the 1950s. It was a compact, fixed-lens model aimed at photographers who wanted to double the number of frames per roll of 135 film.
At recent UK auction, hammer prices for the Pen S have been modest, with the two recorded sales landing at £40 and £50 — a tight £40–£50 range and a median around £45. As of today in 2026 the model sells for low double-digit figures at saleroom level, and clean, working examples with an intact selenium-free shutter tend to sit at the upper end of that 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.
Prices updated: January 2025
| Date | Price | Source | |
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| Jan 2025 | £50 | Special Auction Services | |
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Auction: Photographica & Cameras Auction (Lot 715) Title: An Olympus Pen S Half Frame Camera
Description:
An Olympus Pen S Half Frame Camera, shutter working, body G, some paint wear to back edges, with D Zuiko 3cm f/ 2.8 lens, elements G-VG, wrist strap, |
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| Aug 2024 | £40 | Special Auction Services | |
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Auction: TWO DAY: Photographica & Cameras Auction (Lot 94) Title: An Olympus Pen S Half Frame Camera
Description:
An Olympus Pen S Half Frame Camera, shutter working, body G, some paint wear to back edges, with D Zuiko 3cm f/ 2.8 lens, elements G-VG, wrist strap, |
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Frequently asked questions
What is an Olympus Pen S worth today?
Based on UK auction hammer results, a Pen S is worth roughly £40–£50, with the median value sitting near £45.
How much does an Olympus Pen S sell for at auction?
Recent UK sales show the Pen S sells for between £40 and £50 at hammer, before buyer's premium is added.
Does condition affect the price of a Pen S?
Yes — a clean lens, smooth shutter and intact covering push the price toward the top of the observed range, while hazy or sticky examples sit at the lower end.