Want to Buy Wanted: fast Nikon portrait lens, prime manual focus

I've been shooting with my trusty Micro-Nikkor-P 55mm f3.5 off and on for years. But I'd like a faster lens for portraits in low light.

I'm shooting with an older digital Nikon, the D40x, which can use (without auto focus) the Ai and Ai-S mounts. (My analog work is large format).

I'm hoping to find a good deal on a fast 50mm lens, and an 85mm or 105mm, f1.8 or faster. I'm not particular about the cosmetics as long as it has no functional issues. Would be nice if it came with both caps, but that's not necessary.

Of course I will check eBay, but I prefer to deal with APUG members if possible.

Unrelated: I'm also looking for a small studio spotlight.

Thanks, please respond via PM.

Keith Ostertag

I have a Nikon E series 50mm 1:1.8 in Mint

Thank you for replying. At this point I am now looking for a 50mm f1.4 only.

The Nikon D40 doesn't have an AI-ring, so you minght just as well acquire a non-AI lens.
I have a nice example of the 50 mm f/1.4 ca. 1975 if you fancy? The focus ring is very smooth and the aperture ring is firm and precise. I take PayPal and will ship responsibly.