Terms like "mega rare," "rare," or "gem" found on international auctions indicate unique, exceptionally rare, treasure-like records. Today, some editions from the 60s, 70s, 80s, 90s, and later can cost a fortune. Can you predict which record will become "rare" or "mega rare" over time? How to identify vinyl records with collector potential? Which ones, bought today, will become "gems" or "rare" later? What influences this? Find answers to these and other questions below!
Passion vs. Business
I receive daily messages from publishers and distributors about vinyl news, reissues, remasters, and special editions. How to navigate this jungle and determine what's worth investing in? Invest? Yes, a vinyl record can be an investment. Jack White didn't buy Elvis Presley's first single for $300,000 just to listen to it.
Unearthing Gems
If you love music, love vinyl, and don't mind making some profit along the way, read the following tips. They can be both helpful and interesting. If you can't imagine "trading your collection" and don't want to profit from your passion, this article will help you understand your collection's potential value.
I've been selling vinyl records for over a two decades, in both primary and secondary markets. Here are the factors that can influence whether a record's price will skyrocket:
Music
There are historical examples of unremarkable singles or albums fetching high prices today. This usually happens when only a few copies survive from the entire pressing, e.g., six available copies of Ron Hargrave's 7" single "Latch On/Only A Daydream". However, music remains the most important factor determining future value.
Origin
The more twisted, peculiar, and uniquely combined the music is, the higher the chances for rapid price increase. Greek hip-hop? Russian punk? Japanese metal? These are good indicators.
Guest Features
The number of guests and their "status" can significantly influence a record's desirability. Cross-genre collaborations attract collectors from different genres. A favorite artist's feature on another's album ensures that single or album will find its way into their collection.
Print Run
While not the most crucial factor, if the print run is small (50-300 vinyl), they're likely to sell out quickly and become hard to find later. Like Five Green Circle “Ghost Stories for Sulking Witches” LP.
Availability on Other Formats
If something is only available in physical form in today's digital age of streaming and NFTs, this can significantly impact the record's price growth.
Limited Edition
Alice In Chains released "Jar of Flies EP" (Columbia/Legacy) on March 22, 2024, as a special "Clear Fly-Filled" vinyl. This unique pressing, initially priced around $200, now commands over $1,000. The dramatic price increase exemplifies how distinctive editions can rapidly appreciate - in this case, a creative physical design matching the album's theme created instant collector appeal.
Off-topic: Notice how vinyl color names have become increasingly fancy? Records aren't simply "red" anymore but "valentine red", not "gold" but "desert sand", not "orange" but "flaming". Similar marketing tactics were previously used in fashion and home improvement industries.
Publisher (Label)
Some labels consistently produce "white ravens." Notable examples include Sacred Bones Records, Mondo, and Japan's Wasabi Records (releasing Studio Ghibli anime soundtracks). Worth watching: 4AD, and in Poland - Asfalt Records or Astigmatic Records.
Picture Discs
A slippery topic. Not everyone considers picture discs full-value albums. However, exceptions exist, like Alice In Chains' "The Devil Put Dinosaurs Here," released only on picture discs.
Game Music and Other Soundtracks
Games and music are inseparable. Game soundtracks have become collectible - "The Witcher" soundtrack now costs €175-200+, depending on the version.
Movie soundtracks represent a unique niche, incomparable to others, creating strong emotional connections with impactful films.
Polish Treasures
Poland produces interesting collector's items too: Renata Lewandowska's "Dotyk", EABS records (each selling out instantly with rising prices), Błoto's albums, and metal band Mgła.
Misprints & Production Errors
Production errors can significantly increase the value of a vinyl. A prime example is The Beatles' “Abbey Road” with an incorrectly aligned variant of the Apple logo (UK, Apple Records PCS 7088, 1969). Due to a printing error, some copies contain the iconic Apple Records logo incorrectly printed on the cover. Initially sold at a standard price, these misprinted copies are now fetching high prices among collectors - especially when verified as original UK pressings.
Market Signals
Watch what people eagerly anticipate - it's worth considering for investment in reissues. The vinyl market follows the same rules as other products: demand affects price. If pre-orders create excitement, the record will likely sell out quickly.
Sales Results
These "factors" might prove meaningless. A small print run from a niche publisher of game music might still flop. Like any market, timing matters. Social media buzz and pre-order excitement are good indicators.
Collector's Conscience and Entrepreneurship
As collectors, we know how irritating "vanishing records" are - sold out in pre-order before we notice! Entrepreneurial collectors grab records that honest collectors might want.
From Passion to Professionalism
If you invest time, money, and effort in learning, gaining skills, and understanding the market, why shouldn't it pay off? Collecting records is expensive - why shouldn't it at least self-finance?
Many enthusiasts become specialists in their field. Your knowledge and skills can benefit others. Who wouldn't want to get paid for hunting vinyl? I used to search for records for "famous people" before running out of time.
Conclusion
This guide hopefully adds excitement to collectors' lives. Observing the market, new releases, and trends can be fascinating and engaging. It led me to my own publishing house, promoting young talents, and the #analoglifestyle movement - where will it lead you?
PS. This post isn't business or investment advice. It's my personal opinion based on experience. All financial decisions are at your own risk and responsibility.