Record value
What is a vinyl record really worth?
A meaningful valuation starts with the exact edition and actual condition, not an asking price found somewhere online.
01
Identify the pressing
Country, label, catalogue number, release year, sleeve, inserts and the complete matrix/runout inscriptions help distinguish one edition from another.
02
Grade record and sleeve separately
Hairlines, scratches, warps, seam splits, ring wear, writing, odours and missing components can affect a copy in different ways. Visual inspection and play-testing answer different questions.
03
Use market data carefully
Online prices may be optimistic asking prices rather than completed sales. Demand, rarity and the condition of the compared copy must match before a number becomes useful.