Perhaps you’ve seen it announced on the news that vinyl is making a comeback. Over the past decade, sales of vinyl records have been steadily rising, and audiophiles and analog aficionados around the world have been rejoicing. As The Guardian once put it, LPs are ‘the antidote to a frenetic digital world,’ allowing us to enjoy a full-length album without distractions, without notifications, without skipping songs or rewinding.
Young people are discovering the magic of vinyl, starting their very own record collections, thrifting old pressings and vintage Technics turntables, hunting down rare LPs or EPs and gearing up to become the next top-selling DJ or the next music connoisseur. In their search, they’ll inevitably start looking for rare pressings, or looking to add some of the most iconic, must-have records to their collection. Well, we thought we’d offer a helping hand, and round up the most valuable vinyl records of all time. Be advised that some of these records are incredibly rare and expensive, especially if you’re looking for a first pressing or a limited edition release. But who knows, you might come across these records in your journey, and you might find it useful to know just how popular and valuable they are, if you want to give them a chance and a listen.
1. ‘Choose Your Weapon’ by Scaramanga Silk | 2008
This 12-inch record shocked collectors when it sold for $27,500, making it one of the most expensive modern vinyl records. With only one known copy and a deeply enigmatic backstory, it remains a testament to how scarcity and mystique can drive demand in the vinyl market. Just try looking it up on YouTube - it’s not easy to find.
2. ‘The Black Album’ by Prince | 1987
Initially pressed for release, Prince’s decision to scrap The Black Album after feeling it was ‘evil’ turned the original copies into highly sought-after artifacts. Packed with funky, darker tracks, the few surviving copies, still in their original shrink wrap, have fetched upwards of $20,000.
3. ‘Love Me Do’ by The Beatles | 1962
This debut single from The Beatles is legendary among collectors, especially the rare misprint version with the name of session drummer Andy White instead of Ringo Starr. Only a few copies of this variant exist, making it a cornerstone of Beatles memorabilia.
4. ‘Ummagumma’ by Pink Floyd | 1970
The first UK pressing of this experimental double album features unique matrix codes that distinguish it from later editions. Known for its blend of live performances and individual studio experiments, this pressing has become a centerpiece for Pink Floyd fans and collectors alike.
5. ‘Monster Movie’ by Can | 1969
A groundbreaking debut that introduced the world to Can’s signature krautrock sound, original pressings of Monster Movie are highly valued. Its raw energy and innovative approach to rock music have solidified its place in the history of experimental music.
6. ‘Supernatural Girl’ by Ferris Wheel | 1974
This ultra-rare psych-folk album is treasured for its haunting vocals and lush arrangements. It was released in small numbers by a lesser-known label, and it has become a coveted item for fans of obscure folk music.
7. ‘Cough/Cool/She’ by Misfits | 1977
The first-ever release by the Misfits, this 7-inch single set the stage for their iconic horror-punk style. With only 500 copies originally pressed and self-released by the band, it’s a must-have for punk rock collectors and fans of the genre’s origins.
8. ‘Would You Believe’ by Billy Nichols | 1968
Often compared to Pet Sounds by the Beach Boys, this UK psych-pop masterpiece was released in extremely limited quantities. Its complex orchestration and deeply personal songwriting make it a crown jewel for collectors of 1960s British pop.
9. ‘Mourning Phase’ by Mourning Phase | 1971
This privately pressed British folk album is as rare as it is beautiful. With fewer than 100 copies reportedly made, its melancholic melodies and intimate performances have made it a holy grail for fans of 1970s folk.
10. ‘Melody A.M.’ by Royksopp | 2001
The limited-edition promo version of this iconic electronic album, featuring hand-painted covers by famed artists like Banksy, has become one of the most collectible items in the electronic music world. It’s a testament to the intersection of music and visual art, and it’s quite hard to find.
11. ‘The Velvet Underground & Nico’ by The Velvet Underground | 1967
While the iconic banana cover is beyond famous at this point, the rare ‘torso’ cover version of this album is even more sought after. A critical milestone in the history of alternative rock, this version reflects the controversy and boundary-pushing ethos of the band.
12. ‘Gone With The Wind Is My Love / Wild Times’ by Rita & The Tiaras | 1967
A classic of the Northern Soul scene, this single has become legendary for its poignant lyrics and soaring vocals. Original copies are nearly impossible to find, making it one of the most expensive and revered records of the genre.
13. ‘Too Fast For Love’ by Motley Crue | 1981
Before they were signed to a major label, the notorious Mötley Crüe released this debut album under their own label, Leathür Records. The raw, unpolished sound and limited initial pressing have made it a favorite among fans and collectors of early glam metal.
14. ‘Frutti Per Kagua’ by Capitolo 6 | 1972
An obscure Italian prog-rock gem, this album is a journey through complex arrangements and dramatic storytelling. Its scarcity and unique sound have turned it into a prized possession for fans of 1970s European rock.
15. ‘Chung King Can Suck It’ by Judge | 1989
This hardcore punk album, recorded at the infamous Chung King studios, is notorious for its controversial title and limited pressing. Intended as a sarcastic response to the recording experience, only a handful of copies were made, driving its value through the roof.
16. ‘Sonatas For Two Violins’ by Leonid Kogan And Elisabeth Gilels, Jean-Marie Leclair, Georg Philipp Telemann, Eugène Ysaÿe | 1964
This classical duet album showcases the virtuosity of two legendary violinists. Its original Soviet-era pressing is exceedingly rare, making it a collector’s dream for fans of both vinyl and classical music.
17. ‘New Horizons’ by Sounds of Liberation | 1972
The underground jazz-funk classic embodies the spirit of social activism and cultural expression of the early 1970s. Its limited pressing and groundbreaking fusion of styles make it highly sought after in both jazz and funk circles.
18. ‘Violin Concerto’ by Ludwig Van Beethoven, Leonid Kogan, Orchestre De La Société Des Concerts Du Conservatoire, Conducted By Constantin Silvestri | 1961
Renowned for its unparalleled interpretation of Beethoven’s concerto, this recording by Kogan is a masterpiece. The original pressings are treasured for their exceptional sound quality and historical importance.
19. ‘Bullet’ by Misfits | 1979
This provocative single, with its shocking cover art and raw punk energy, is an essential piece of Misfits history. Limited in production, it remains one of the most collectible records in the punk scene.
20. ‘Please Please Me’ by The Beatles | 1963
The very first UK stereo pressing of The Beatles’ debut album is a grail item for collectors. Its historical significance, coupled with its extreme scarcity, has made it one of the most valuable pieces of Beatles memorabilia.
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