Minolta's first-generation AF fast fifty — one of the earliest autofocus 50mm lenses in history.
The Minolta AF 50mm f/1.7 was introduced in 1985 as part of the original Minolta 7000 AF system — one of the first practical autofocus SLR systems in the world. This lens holds historical significance as one of the earliest AF standard primes, launching the autofocus revolution that would transform photography. It became the standard fast fifty for Minolta A-mount.
Optical performance is good for the era. Sharpness is respectable from f/1.7 and very good by f/2.8. The simple seven-element design is effective and reliable. Bokeh is smooth with seven rounded aperture blades. Colour rendition has the pleasant, warm Minolta character. As an early AF lens, the focusing motor is functional but slow by modern standards.
Minolta A mount (also known as Sony A mount, as Sony acquired Minolta's camera division). Filter thread is 49mm. Weight is approximately 235 grams — compact. Build quality is solid plastic with a metal mount. The A-mount compatibility means it works on all Sony A-mount DSLRs and SLTs with full AF, and adapts to Sony E-mount via LA-EA adapters.
Very affordable on the used market. Check for smooth AF operation and clean optics. A piece of camera history as one of the first AF lenses. Still functionally useful on Sony A-mount bodies. The Sony/Minolta 50mm f/1.4 is the premium alternative, while the Sony DT 50mm f/1.8 SAM is the more modern APS-C equivalent.