The daguerreotype was the first photographic process available to the general public and was invented by Louis-Jacques-Mandé Daguerre. It was introduced in Paris in 1839 and quickly spread to America. In very simple terms, the daguerreotype was an early image on a silver-coated copper plate. The peak of daguerreotype popularity in this country was in the early 1850s when there were more than 85 photographic studios listed in New York City alone.
The daguerreotype was almost completely replaced by 1860 with the newer and less expensive ambrotype, which was an early image on a transparent glass plate with a black backing, instead of the silver coated copper plate.
Daguerreotypes and ambrotypes are often confused because both were originally housed in special cases made from either leather covered wood (1839-53) or, by the mid-1850s, a hard resin or plastic case made from sawdust and varnish and often called either “Union,” “Thermoplastic,” or “Gutta Percha” cases.
Because daguerreotypes were produced on a polished silver background, they are highly reflective, like a mirror or cameo proof coin. Since ambrotypes were produced on a glass plate with black backing, they are not reflective like the daguerreotype. So the easiest way to tell if you have a daguerreotype is to tilt it back and forth. If it’s reflective like a mirror, it’s a daguerreotype; if not reflective, it’s an ambrotype.
What’s it worth? Daguerreotypes and ambrotypes featuring a soldier, someone in a specific trade (dentist, physician, etc.), historically important people, or famous buildings or landmarks can command premium prices into the hundreds and sometimes thousands of dollars. Several years ago, a daguerreotype of an early 19th century photographer sold for $17,550 at auction, while another of an old New York State mill sold for $9,360 in the same auction. But most, which depict generic family members, including men, women or children, will bring $50-$100 or less. The condition of both the image and case are extremely important to value.

Mike Ivankovich is an auctioneer, appraiser, home downsizing expert, and host of the "What's It Worth? Ask Mike the Appraiser" radio show that airs live on Friday mornings from 9 to 10 a.m. on WBCB 1490 AM in the greater Philadelphia area. It is available on the internet at www.WBCB1490.com. His show also airs in Denver, Co., on KEZW Cruisin 1430 AM on Saturdays from 3 to 4 p.m. MST and Sundays from 11 a.m. to noon MST and on the internet at www.Cruisin1430.com.
To learn more, visit www.AskMikeTheAppraiser.com.