Rarest limited edition vinyl pressings are highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts due to their scarcity and often unique features. These pressings can be quite valuable, and their rarity can vary depending on factors like the artist, label, and specific edition. Here are a few examples of some of the rarest limited edition vinyl pressings:
- The Beatles – The Beatles (White Album) No. 0000010: This is one of the most famous limited edition vinyl records. Numbered “0000010,” it was presented to John Lennon and is considered one of the rarest White Album copies. In 2015, it was sold at auction for over $30,000.
- Pink Floyd – The Wall (Ultra-Rare U.S. “Blue-Brick” Cover): The original U.S. release of Pink Floyd’s “The Wall” featured a blue brick cover. Due to its limited production, this edition is quite rare and sought after by collectors.
- Prince – The Black Album: Originally scheduled for release in 1987, this album was pulled from distribution before most copies could be sold. A small number of copies were released and are now considered extremely rare.
- Sex Pistols – “God Save the Queen” A&M Records Promo: A limited number of promotional copies were pressed before A&M Records dropped the Sex Pistols. These promo copies are now highly collectible.
- The Rolling Stones – “Street Fighting Man” 7-inch with 3D Cover: This 7-inch single came with a 3D cover and was limited to a few thousand copies. The 3D cover version is much rarer and more valuable than the standard edition.
- The Velvet Underground & Nico – “Scepter Studios Acetate”: Only two acetate copies of this recording are known to exist, making it an incredibly rare piece of music history.
- Bob Dylan – “The Freewheelin’ Bob Dylan” Withdrawn Cover: The original cover of this album featured a photograph of Dylan and his then-girlfriend, Suze Rotolo. However, Rotolo’s parents objected, and the cover was withdrawn. The original cover is now a collector’s item.
- Led Zeppelin – “Led Zeppelin III” Rare “Wheel” Cover: A limited number of copies of Led Zeppelin III featured a rotating wheel cover. This edition is now considered quite rare and valuable.
- The Misfits – “Horror Business” Single: Some copies of this single were pressed on red vinyl with a blank B-side. These rare misprints are highly sought after.
- Nirvana – “Love Buzz” 7-inch Single: The first single ever released by Nirvana was “Love Buzz.” The limited edition “Sub Pop Single” is particularly rare and collectible.
It’s important to note that rarity and value can change over time as more information becomes available and as collectors’ interests evolve. Limited edition vinyl pressings can range from those created by well-known artists to obscure releases from independent labels. The rarity and value of these records often depend on a combination of factors, including the artist’s popularity, the label’s reputation, the condition of the record, and the specific edition’s unique features.
