Ambrotypes

An ambrotype is a positive image photo on glass made with the collodion wet plate process. It was one of the earliest forms of photography and was patented in 1854 by Bostonian James Cutting. The ambrotype overtook the daguerreotype, and the tintype overtook them both, mostly because each new form became cheaper and easier to produce. Below are some answers to questions that I had about early photography. I consider myself a beginner, so if any of it's inaccurate, please let me know.

How can I tell an ambrotype from other forms of early photography like the tintype or daguerreotype?

The easiest way to know if you've got an ambrotype is if the image itself is on glass. Tintypes are on metal iron plates, daguerreotypes are on silver or silver-coated copper plates, albumen prints are paper or cards. You will almost always see an ambrotype in a Union case or other sealed case. If anybody knows how to easily tell a tintype from an ambrotype without removing the photo from the glass please share.

Are ambrotypes better images than daguerreotypes?

Many preferred the ambrotype when it was introduced because they hated the mirror surface of the daguerreotype; however, the daguerreotype provided a more crisp, clear image with more detail. Untinted ambrotypes also have less brilliance and are more grayish white.

Are ambrotypes more valuable than tintypes or daguerreotypes?

From what I can gather, all else being equal, a daguerreotype is more valuable than an ambrotype. An ambrotype is more valuable than a tintype. Subject matter, condition, identification, and other factors mean more when determining value. Here you can browse, compare, or buy ambrotypes. Like with tintypes or dags, the most valuable ambros will be those that are politicians, celebrities, Civil War soldiers, interesting poses, interesting clothing, minstrel or other unusual photos, animals, etc.

If you have any questions you'd like answers to, please post them in the comment section. I'll try to get the right answer.

Photo credit: Ambrotype 3/4 length portrait photo of American stage actress Charlotte Saunders Cushman, Library of Congress 1859