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Canon tells us: 'EF lens production started in March 1987. In Aug. 1995, we reached 10 million units. In Feb. 2001, 20 million in Jan. 2006, 30 million, and in Apr. 2008, 40 million. And after only 1 years and 8 months, we reached 50 million.'

EF mount lens production started in 1987. In September 2009, Nikon announced the 50 millionth lens for its F mount, launched in 1959.


1987 saw the first lens with an Ultrasonic Motor – EF 300mm f/2.8L USM for professional sports and wildlife photographers
In 1995 Canon introduced the worlds first interchangeable lens with Image Stabilizer – EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 IS USM for sports and wildlife enthusiasts
In 2001 the first lens to incorporate Canon’s multi layered diffractive optics elements – EF 400mm f/4 DO IS USM for professional sports and wildlife photographers on the move
2008 saw the first lens to use Canon’s SWC (Subwavelength Structure Coating) – EF 24 mm F/1.4L II USM for professional landscape photographers
Then in 2009 the worlds first lens with Hybrid IS – EF 100mm f2.8L Macro IS USM for close ups was launched
Most recently in 2010 Canon has launched the new high-quality, telephoto zoom lens the EF 70-200mm f/2.8L II IS USM for all types of professional photography.