
These records feature the earliest recordings of American jazz, blues and rock n’ roll. Old 78 RPM records from the ‘20s can also be collectible. These records are from the “golden era” of the vinyl record timeline, made famous by the greatest musicians in history-The Beatles, Jimi Hendrix, James Brown and Bob Dylan to name a few. Vinyl records from the ‘50s and ‘60s are very collectible. You can identify your record’s age by reading the liner notes-the text printed on the sleeve. Records from popular eras are usually more in-demand than others. The earlier the pressing, the purer the sound. That’s because the stamper which presses a vinyl record wears out over time or can pick up scratches and flaws. Unless the first pressing had serious audio mishaps that were corrected in subsequent pressings, it’s generally accepted that first pressings have more detail because the stampers are made directly from the master disc. Therefore, first pressings are significantly more valuable than subsequent pressings (2nd, 3rd, 4th and so on), as well as reissues that are cut from remastered recordings.Ĭollectors prefer first pressings because they’re first-and it’s always cool to say you have a first edition-but many audiophiles believe first pressings offer better sound quality than subsequent pressings. While every pressing varies in value, first pressings are the true “diamonds in the dust.”įirst pressings are made from the initial batch of lacquers (or master discs) and cut from the original master recordings. Record companies release several different pressings-or production runs of a record. Valued at $125 for a stereo copy, it’s also one of the rarest vinyl records. Al Green’s Back Up Train, for example, was released years before his official debut. Records produced by famous artists (Prince, Etta James, Stevie Wonder, Bob Marley and so on) are more collectible than lesser-known ones.Ī record might be worth more if it was released before the artist became famous. The Name of the Artistįirst, you’ll need to identify which artist produced the record. But there are several other factors that determine a record’s value. Vinyl records are worth money if they're rare, unique or produced by famous artists (sometimes all of the above). Keep reading to discover if you have hidden gems in your collection! What Kind of Vinyl Records Are Worth Money?
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We’ll show you how to assess the value of your records. But what kind of records are worth money, and how can you identify them? Of course, used vinyl records that skyrocket into the five or six-figure range are few and farbetween-and often have specific characteristics that make them so valuable. For example, rare copies of The Freewheelin’ Bob Dylan that feature four unreleased songs have sold for $35,000, and you can still find them if you know what to look for.

Even though most vintage records sell for under $20, valuable ones can fetch far more than the average price. Whether you inherited someone’s record collection or bought a handful of 45s from an estate sale, you’re probably wondering if there’s a “holy grail” between the sleeves.


Flipping through vinyl records might lead you to something special.
