Rare vinyl combines music history, manufacturing evidence, condition and collector demand. A useful conclusion should be traceable to identifiers on the physical release.
1. Identify exactly
Identify exactly should be evaluated against the exact release, country, format, label, catalog number, matrix/runout, packaging and condition. Preserve the physical evidence and avoid replacing identification with seller shorthand.
2. Grade honestly
Grade honestly should be evaluated against the exact release, country, format, label, catalog number, matrix/runout, packaging and condition. Preserve the physical evidence and avoid replacing identification with seller shorthand.
3. Show matrix
Show matrix should be evaluated against the exact release, country, format, label, catalog number, matrix/runout, packaging and condition. Preserve the physical evidence and avoid replacing identification with seller shorthand.
4. Use sold comps
Use sold comps should be evaluated against the exact release, country, format, label, catalog number, matrix/runout, packaging and condition. Preserve the physical evidence and avoid replacing identification with seller shorthand.
5. Calculate net
Calculate net should be evaluated against the exact release, country, format, label, catalog number, matrix/runout, packaging and condition. Preserve the physical evidence and avoid replacing identification with seller shorthand.
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List the exact record, not just the album title
The buyer needs enough identifiers to distinguish a rare variant from a common pressing, and enough condition evidence to evaluate the asking price.
- Photograph both labels, matrix etchings, jacket edges, inserts and any original hype stickers.
- Grade record and sleeve separately; disclose audible defects, warps and missing items without overstating condition.
- Compare identical or close variants in completed sales and account for selling fees, shipping and returns.
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