Thornton-pickardmfg. Co. Aerial Camera Type C
The Thornton-Pickard Aerial Camera Type C is a British plate camera built for aerial reconnaissance use, dating from the early twentieth century. It is a collector-grade item rather than a working photographic tool, sought primarily for its military and photographic-history significance.
Hammer prices at UK auction for the Type C have ranged from around £1,200 to £2,900, with a midpoint near £2,000 based on the limited recorded sales. As of today these are wholesale saleroom results, and what an example sells for depends heavily on completeness, original markings, and physical condition; clean, fully-marked examples sit at the upper end of that value 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: April 2026
| Date | Price | Source | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apr 2026 | £6,000 | Flints Auctions | |
|
Auction: Fine Photographica (Lot 422) Title: A Thornton Pickard Aerial Camera Type C Outfit
Description:
1915, mahogany & brass, serial no. C151, with Cooke Aviar Anastigmat Series II f/4.5 210mm lens, black, serial no. 320679, body, G-VG, shutter |
|||
|
Loading...
|
|||
| May 2004 | EUR 2,917 | Leitz Auction | |
|
Auction: Leitz Auction 5 (Lot AI_5_23183) Title: Thornton-Pickard Type C Aerial Camera
Description:
very early aerial camera, 4x5" mahogany & brass body, Ross Aero 4.5/8.5", five mahogany plate changing backs, fitted wooden case marked: Air School LC1/6/6, an important item in very good condition Estimate: EUR 1,910 - EUR 89 |
|||
|
Loading...
|
|||
| Aug 2000 | £1,175 | Christie's | |
|
Auction: Cameras and Photographic Equipment (Lot 340) Title: Type C Aeriel camera no. 89
Description:
Type C Aeriel camera no. 89 Estimate: £1,500 - £2,000 |
|||
|
Loading...
|
|||
Frequently asked questions
What is a Thornton-Pickard Aerial Camera Type C worth today?
Recorded UK auction hammer results sit between roughly £1,200 and £2,900, so a fair value guide is around £1,200–£2,900 depending on condition and completeness.
How much does a Thornton-Pickard Aerial Camera Type C sell for at auction?
The two recorded sales show a price range of about £1,200 to £2,900 at hammer, with the higher figure achieved by a more complete example.
Why does the price vary so much?
Condition of the wooden body, presence of original military markings, and inclusion of original plate holders and accessories all have a strong effect on what a Type C sells for.