What makes a record rare?

A rare record could be an original pressing of a cult classic or an uncommon promotional edition. Since there are fewer original pressings and promotional copies than re-releases or standard editions, the former are more exclusive and worth more.

How do you know if a vinyl record is valuable?

Ultimately, there are four key factors to consider: how rare the record is, what condition it's in, how old it is, and the current price of similar copies. In the sections below, we'll walk you through all of these factors to help you get a sense of how to evaluate the albums in your collection.

Why are some vinyls so rare?

A shortage of supply to make records, a diminished demand to press records due to high costs, and a frenzy of people buying records with little to no regard for the price. Sales of records online have never even been close to what they were in 2020 when they increased 30% in one year (this is unprecedented).

What is the rarest vinyl record?

What makes a vinyl collectible?

Colored vinyl, picture discs, limited editions, rare picture sleeves, and test pressings from record companies tend to be more valuable than the regular black mass pressings found in many record stores and those played on radio stations.

What makes a vinyl record rare?

Are albums from the 60's and 70's worth anything?

And generally speaking, rare records from the 1960s and 1970s (the "golden era" of music) which only had a few hundred copies pressed are the most valuable (even if that band is largely unknown), commanding four-figure sums in some cases.

Are any old albums worth money?

Yes, just like first or early printings of books, first pressings or early pressings of albums are worth more — even to a 25-year-old consumer.

Are rare vinyl records a good investment?

But with vinyl proving to be a tremendous investment over the last two decades or so, and even institutions such as the Financial Times pointing out there have not been many ways to beat the return on rare vinyl, future value is something we should all be taking in to consideration - at the very least when playing and ...

What is the most wanted vinyl record?

Is colored vinyl worth more?

Due to their rarity compared to more traditional kinds of records, colored vinyl records generally have a much higher resale value as time goes on.

Do vinyls lose quality over time?

The more you use your records, the more they will deteriorate. Like anything physical, the friction between two surfaces will gradually add wear and tear (in this case the contact of the stylus on the record's grooves). On top of this, you'll also have the handling of the records and how often you move them around.

Why is colored vinyl worse?

Ingredients used. Instead of black carbon, colored records are created using different colored dyes mixed with PVC as part of the manufacturing process. It's this process of mixing different ingredients that can, potentially, make the record sound different.

What makes a 78 records valuable?

The greatest value is in rare records with minimal pressings. A rare record could be an original pressing of a cult classic or an uncommon promotional edition. Since there are fewer original pressings and promotional copies than re-releases or standard editions, the former are more exclusive and worth more.

Is there an app to find value of vinyl records?

The official Discogs App is the best way to catalog your music collection, find that hidden gem, check pricing and buy music from the world's largest discography of physical music.

How can you tell if a vinyl record is a first edition?

What records sell for the most money?

How long do vinyl records last?

Your vinyl records can last anywhere from a year or two and up to well over 100 years. If you're aiming for the latter, it really comes down to how well you care for your record collection.

What music records are worth money?

What to look for when buying vinyl records?

Pay attention to the condition of records when you purchase them. If you are purchasing vinyl in person, inspect the vinyl for scratches, dirt, and imperfections. If vinyl is too scratched up or dirty, it's probably not worth getting since it won't be worth as much to resell, and it won't sound enjoyable for listening.

What is the best selling vinyl of all time?

1/ Thriller - Michael Jackson - 27 million vinyl records sold. Who else but the King of Pop for the top step of the podium? Only one year after its release in 1982, Thriller was already the best-selling album of all time, with no less than 32 million units sold in all formats, and 66 million to date.

Why do artists still sell vinyls?

They provide a warmer sound than digital formats, they offer a more immersive listening experience, and they allow fans to physically hold the album artwork. In addition, many famous artists are releasing their music on vinyl again due to the superior sound quality that it provides.

What rock albums are worth money?

Who will buy vinyl records?

The best places to sell vinyl records online are eBay and Discogs. These are the two big 'go-to' platforms. The eBay vs Discogs debate is a big one amongst record collectors, with pros and cons to each.

Are CDs worth anything?

Absolutely! Although streaming and digital music are the most popular ways to listen these days, lots of people prefer the collectable nature and superior sound quality of CDs. This demand means that the vast majority of CDs are still worth something - and the amount you can make soon adds up!