Why is this Leica M 50mm Summicron worth $4K?

[figure1a]

I don't know much about Leica lenses but was surprised to see this price. The barrel is black but other than that what is the difference in this Summicron than others? Usually I see them go for $700 to $1000 on eBay. The lens is here on eBay:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=320728289620

[250swb]

It appears to be a black paint version of the lens, hence the price.

Steve

[tom b]

Comes with free fungus.

Cheers,

[figure1a]

But other black paint ones have gone for substantially less with no fungus. There were several bidders who bid this thing up. What do they know that we don't?

[PeterAit]

But other black paint ones have gone for substantially less with no fungus. There were several bidders who bid this thing up. What do they know that we don't?

They may not know anything we don't - just idiots. Perhaps the "collectible" factor has come into play so that the lens is valued because of its rarity and not its optical qualities.

[Eric Myrvaagnes]

Maybe the fungus is an especially rare and valuable one.

[Rob C]

Maybe the fungus is an especially rare and valuable one.

Yes, that's what it is: special form of medication is derived from this rare type of growth - enhances and hones the credulity levels of anyone who owns some.

Rob C