While vinyl collectors often pursue 12-inch LPs for their musical treasure trove, the 7-inch vinyl record format has its own charm. These smaller records are not only beloved for their concise singles but also for the valuable gems they hold. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the most expensive 7-inch vinyl records ever sold, uncovering the stories behind their high values.
- The Beatles – “Please Please Me” (1963, Parlophone):
The Beatles’ “Please Please Me” is a pop culture classic, and its 7-inch single, released in 1963, is highly coveted by collectors. However, it’s not just any copy that commands a high price; it’s a rare, factory sample copy that fetched around £50,000 in a 2012 auction.
- The Sex Pistols – “God Save the Queen” (1977, A&M):
The Sex Pistols’ “God Save the Queen” single is not only iconic but also historically significant. Original pressings of this single can be worth a small fortune. In 2017, a copy in mint condition was sold for approximately £12,000.
- Elvis Presley – “That’s All Right” (1954, Sun Records):
Elvis Presley’s first single, “That’s All Right,” is a historic piece of rock ‘n’ roll history. A rare, original 7-inch copy of this single on Sun Records is highly valuable. In 2015, one such copy was sold for over $20,000.
- The Quarrymen – “That’ll Be the Day” / “In Spite of All the Danger” (1958, Privately Pressed):
Before The Beatles, they were known as The Quarrymen. In 1958, they privately pressed a 7-inch single with “That’ll Be the Day” and “In Spite of All the Danger.” Only one copy is known to exist, and it sold for over $200,000 in 2012.
- The Velvet Underground & Nico – “The Velvet Underground & Nico” (1966, Scepter Records, Acetate):
A unique and highly valuable item in the world of 7-inch vinyl is an acetate recording of The Velvet Underground & Nico’s debut album. One such acetate copy fetched an impressive $25,200 in 2016.
- Prince – “The Black Album” (1987, Warner Bros.):
Prince’s enigmatic album “The Black Album” had a limited release on vinyl before being pulled from circulation. Original copies can be worth several thousand dollars, with some reaching $15,000 or more.
Conclusion:
The world of 7-inch vinyl records contains hidden treasures, each with its unique story and value. These records offer a snapshot of music history, capturing the essence of various eras and genres. While not all 7-inch records carry high price tags, certain rare and historically significant releases can be worth substantial sums to collectors and enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re a passionate vinyl collector or simply curious about the value of your old records, the world of 7-inch vinyl is a fascinating realm of music history, discovery, and sometimes, financial surprise.
