What is a metal photograph from the mid 1800's worth?

Question

It is from around the early to mid 1800's. It's of 3 of my relatives, but I don't know who they are.

Answer 1

If the image is from the early 1800's around 1839-1850 then it is a Dagguereotype. Now if the image was taken after 1856 it is most likely a Ferrotype. How does one tell the difference? To begin due to the fragile nature of hte image most Dagguereotypes are enclosed in a little case like this http://www.vintagephoto.tv/images/noseandhat.jpg The images themselves are printed on silver and unlike modern photo processes you cannot reproduce a dagguereotype, each image is totally unique. Another thing about a dagguereotypes is that the image is almost three dimensional, and you can't see the image from all angles.
Ferrotypes or tintypes on the other hand resemble a dagguereotype at first glance, but there is a significant quality difference. They don't have the depth nor the luster that dags possess. Typically you won't find a tintype in the same type of case that you will find on a dag because the image is a bit more durable. Unlike the dagguereotype process which lasted only about 10 years, the ferrotype process lasted well into the 20th century despite modern more practical techniques
As for the value, it really depends on which type of photo you have. Dagguereotypes are much more unusual than tintypes and as such can fetch more money. How much much depends upon several factors such as who is in the image, the quality of the dag, historical significance, size etc... This is really general but if the image is a just an ordinary dag of average quality it may not be worth the money, perhaps $50-$70 at most. On the other hand if it is a tintype it may be worth as little as $5 or $10. Personally I would suggest you hold onto this treasure rather than sell it.

Answer 2

These are fairly common ( a few dollars, maybe) UNLESS the photo is of a famous person, or a battle, or some historical event like that. Then you may have some value.