Sold Date: February 20, 2022
Start Date: February 10, 2022
Final Price: £48.00 (GBP)
Bid Count: 5
Seller Feedback: 1351
Buyer Feedback: 0

For sale is a copy of The Beatles fifth studio album, Help!.

This is an original STEREO UK 4th Pressing produced in 1969 which features the sought-after 1 Box EMI Parlophone labels.

This is one of the rarest pressings of Help that is very difficult to find. The Beatles were still releasing new music in 1969 so not many copies were sold.

This copy is in fantastic condition, you will struggle to find one better. 

Many vinyl records are mis-sold on eBay. There are several details which identify this copy as a true 4th pressing. They are:

·      Front side laminated Garrod & Lofthouse flipback sleeve. 

·      No STEREO outline printed on the front of the sleeve.

·      Black labels with silver Parlophone logo.

·      1 EMI logo printed in a box at the bottom of the sleeve (hence the 1 box EMI name).

·      33 1/3 printed on the left hand side of the labels.

·      ‘PCS 3071’ catalogue number.

·      Matrix numbers YEX 168-1 (side 1) and YEX 169-1 (side 2).

I try to take pictures which provide a fair representation of the condition of a record and the sleeve. If interested, please read below for a detailed discussion including an audio description. 

I use the Goldmine standard as a reference for grading. 

Vinyl: Near Mint

The record looks brand new.

The vinyl surface retains the original gloss sheen.

The labels are bright and clean with no spindle wear. 

There are no noticeable marks even in bright light.

The  audio on both sides is fantastic; clear vocals, punchy bass and crisp details.

Sleeve: Excellent

The sleeve is in fantastic condition.

The front is very clean without any laminate ripples or bubbling.

This rear is still nice clean with only minimal discolouration on the opening edge.

The corners are sharp, and the spine and edges are distinct.

Inner Sleeve: Excellent 

The inner sleeve is the EMI advertising copy.

It is still very white overall although does have slight discolouration on the left and right edges. 

Otherwise minimal creasing and no seam splits or tears.

Also included in the sale is an audiophile quality inner sleeve which provides the best possible protection for the record. 

It is difficult to find 52-year-old records looking this good. This is an extremely rare opportunity to add a sought-after pressing in like-new condition to your collection.

The outer sleeve, vinyl, and inner sleeve are all housed separately within a premium quality polythene outer sleeve.

The record will be sent insured within a padded vinyl record mailer.

International bidders please enquire for an accurate estimate of the postage cost. 

If you have any questions, please ask! 

Check out my other items, having a downsize.