What is ED at the end of some Nikon lens. And why is it so expensive.?

Answer 1

ED stands for extra-low dispersion glass.

Nikon's Extra-low Dispersion (ED) glass helps correct chromatic aberrations, or optical color defects, caused when different light wavelengths do not converge at the same point after passing through optical glass. Calcium fluorite crystals were once used to correct this problem in telephoto lenses, but the substance cracked easily and was sensitive to temperature changes. So Nikon created ED glass, which offers all the benefits - yet none of the drawbacks - of calcium fluorite-based glass. ED glass is now an essential element in Nikkor's telephone lenses, helping deliver stunning sharpness and contrast, even at maximum aperture.

Translation: some kind of magic glass to make your photos sharper! ;-)

By itself, it isn't that much more expensive, but Nikon has generally chosen to use it on more "high-end" lenses which normally combine with other expensive features: like vibration reduction (VR), silent-wave motors (AF-S), or aspherical lens elements.

Answer 2

The 'ED' stands for Extra-low Dispersion: one or more of the glass elements has been treated to minimize chromatic aberration, and provide higher resolution and better contrast.
With expensive Nikon lenses, this is just one of the reasons for the high price.

Answer 3

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Good Luck!