12 Old Vinyl Records That Are Worth Digging Out
If you have a collection of old vinyl records, you might be surprised by their hidden value. Many vintage albums from past decades are increasingly sought after by collectors and music enthusiasts.
Whether it’s music history or potential worth, these vinyl records offer something special for anyone willing to look through their collection.
The Beatles – Yesterday and Today (Butcher Cover)
If you come across the Beatles’ Yesterday and Today with the “Butcher Cover,” you found something unique. This original 1966 US release shows the band in a controversial photo with meat and doll parts.
It was quickly withdrawn, making copies rare and sought after by collectors. Keep an eye out for different “states” or versions, as some are rarer than others.
The Beatles – White Album (First Pressing)
If you find a first pressing of The Beatles’ White Album, it could be a valuable piece for your collection. These original 1968 pressings often come with unique features like posters or numbered sleeves.
You can learn to spot originals by checking specific details like stampings and label designs.
Led Zeppelin – Led Zeppelin (Turquoise Lettering, Early Pressing)
If you find a copy of Led Zeppelin’s debut album with turquoise lettering, you’re holding a rare gem. This early pressing was only released in a short run and quickly withdrawn, making it especially valuable to collectors.
The sleeve has a unique laminated finish, and the vinyl features the original Atlantic plum and red label.
Bob Dylan – The Freewheelin’ Bob Dylan (Withdrawn Covers)
If you’re into rare vinyl, you’ll want to keep an eye out for the original “Freewheelin’” album with its withdrawn covers. These versions were pulled shortly after release, making them extremely collectible.
Some copies even feature four withdrawn tracks not found on later editions. A stereo copy of this original release has sold for as much as $35,000.
Iron Maiden – Twilight Zone/Wrathchild (1981 Brown Vinyl)
If you come across the 1981 brown vinyl single of Iron Maiden’s Twilight Zone/Wrathchild, you’ve found something special. This 7″ record was released in the UK and is known for its unique color and sound quality.
Collectors value it for its rarity, especially if the sleeve and record are in good condition.
Pink Floyd – The Dark Side of the Moon (Original UK Pressing)
If you have an original UK pressing of The Dark Side of the Moon, you’re holding a valuable piece of music history. These early pressings are especially prized by collectors, particularly ones with low stamper numbers.
Condition matters a lot. A mint or near-mint record can fetch thousands, while worn copies are worth much less.
Nirvana – Bleach (Sub Pop First Pressing)
If you have a first pressing of Nirvana’s Bleach on Sub Pop from 1989, it’s worth checking closely. These records were pressed in limited colors like white and dark lime green, making them more collectible.
Your copy could be worth hundreds, even more if it’s in near-mint condition. The original black vinyl copies are easier to find but still popular among collectors.
The Rolling Stones – Sticky Fingers (Original UK Pressing)
If you come across an original UK pressing of Sticky Fingers, you’ve found a classic piece of rock history. Released in 1971, it features that iconic Andy Warhol-designed zipper cover.
The album marked an important chapter for The Rolling Stones with hits like “Brown Sugar” and “Wild Horses.” Original pressings can be quite valuable, often fetching between €450 and €1,350.
Your copy is not just the music but also a unique collectible due to its design and the band’s legacy.
Prince – The Black Album (Unreleased Original Pressing)
If you have a copy of Prince’s The Black Album from the original 1987 vinyl pressing, you might be sitting on a rare treasure. Very few of these pressings were ever released, making them incredibly hard to find.
Collectors value these originals highly, with some copies fetching up to $30,000.
David Bowie – Ziggy Stardust (Original UK Pressing)
If you have the original UK pressing of David Bowie’s “Ziggy Stardust,” you’re holding a piece of music history. These vinyls often feature distinctive details like the Titanic Music credit and sometimes lack the Mainman logo on the back.
The sound quality on versions like the 6E/4E pressing is praised for its clarity and punchy lows. It’s a great find for your collection, especially if it’s in good condition with all original inserts.
The Velvet Underground & Nico – Banana Cover (First Pressing)
If you have a first pressing of this album, you’re holding a piece of music history. The iconic banana cover was designed by Andy Warhol, whose art added a unique touch to the record.
Early copies had a peelable banana sticker, which makes your vinyl even more special. Collectors often look for this type.
The original pressing can be valuable, especially if the banana is unpeeled or only partially peeled. Your record also features a rear photo of actor Eric Emerson, adding to its classic charm.
Sex Pistols – God Save the Queen (Rare Pink Vinyl)
If you come across the Sex Pistols’ “God Save the Queen” on rare pink vinyl, it’s worth a closer look. nThis version is highly collectible due to its limited release and unique color.
The single marked a pivotal moment in punk history. Finding one could add both historical and monetary value to your collection.
