Vinyl records have long been prized by collectors for their tangible and historical value, but some records stand out as exceptionally rare and sought-after. These rare vinyl records often hold a unique place in music history and have commanded high prices among collectors. In this article, we’ll explore some of the rarest vinyl records in existence.
1. The Beatles – “The Beatles” (White Album): No. 0000010
The first four copies of The Beatles’ self-titled 1968 album, commonly known as the “White Album,” were individually numbered, with copy No. 0000001 being retained by John Lennon. Number 0000001 was later auctioned, making it one of the most valuable records ever sold. Copies 0000002 through 0000004 are also considered incredibly rare and highly collectible.
2. Sex Pistols – “God Save the Queen” (A&M Version)
The Sex Pistols’ “God Save the Queen” single on A&M Records is one of the most notorious and scarce records. The band was dropped by the label before the record’s release, making it a rarity. Only a handful of promotional copies were pressed, and most of them were destroyed. Surviving copies are extremely valuable.
3. Frank Wilson – “Do I Love You (Indeed I Do)”
Frank Wilson’s “Do I Love You (Indeed I Do)” is a Motown soul single that is highly coveted by collectors. The story goes that Motown decided not to release the single, making it even rarer. A few copies survived, and one was sold for a record-breaking price.
4. The Quarrymen – “That’ll Be the Day”
Before they became The Beatles, they were The Quarrymen, and they recorded a few tracks, including “That’ll Be the Day” with Paul McCartney, John Lennon, and George Harrison. There are only a few acetate copies of this recording in existence, and they are considered priceless artifacts of music history.
5. Robert Johnson – “Kind Hearted Woman Blues”
Blues legend Robert Johnson’s recordings are legendary, and original 78 RPM records of his songs are exceedingly rare. One of the rarest is “Kind Hearted Woman Blues” backed with “Terraplane Blues.” Only two known copies exist, and one was sold for a considerable sum.
6. The Velvet Underground & Nico – “The Velvet Underground & Nico” (Andy Warhol Banana Cover)
The debut album by The Velvet Underground & Nico featured an iconic banana cover designed by Andy Warhol. Early copies credited “The Verve” instead of “The Velvet Underground.” A limited number of these misprinted records exist, and they are highly sought after by collectors.
7. Prince – “The Black Album”
Prince’s “The Black Album” was canceled just days before its release, making the few promo copies that were sent out extremely rare. Only a few copies are known to exist, and they can fetch high prices at auction.
8. The Rolling Stones – “Street Fighting Man” (Japanese Promo)
A misprinted version of The Rolling Stones’ “Street Fighting Man” single was released in Japan, featuring a controversial cover image. The label withdrew it and reissued the single with a new cover. The original Japanese promo copies are considered extremely rare.
These are just a few examples of the rarest vinyl records in existence. Collectors and enthusiasts continue to seek out these precious pieces of music history, and their scarcity and historical significance make them highly coveted and valuable items in the world of vinyl collecting.
