Spectroscopic properties of Er3+-doped lead phosphate glasses were studied. Efficient upconversion luminescence was observed under 980 nm excitation. The emission cross-section for the 4S3/2 → 4I15/2 level is 3.31 × 10−21 cm2. The lifetimes for 2H11/2, 4S3/2 and 4F9/2 → 4I15/2 levels were found to be similar. The results confirm that these glasses are suitable for photonic applications.