The Beatles - A Collection of Beatles Oldies

I am pleased to offer for sale this superb, UK stereo 1st pressing of The Beatles first compilation album, A Collection of Beatles Oldies.

Released to take advantange of Christmas sales in the winter of 1966, A Collection of Beatles Oldies brought together the 'greatest hits' from the Beatles early catalogue; including some titles that had previously not been released on any of their LPs. Although not the most collectible of the Beatles albums, A Collection of Beatles Oldies is a fantastic way to listen to the best of the Beatles early rock'n'roll tunes.

In addition to being an excellent-all-round example, the record is also a much coveted 'Factory Sample'. EMI produced 'Factory Sample' records for promotional purposes and were generally sent to a journalist for review. Genuine factory samples can be discerned due to the presence of a sticker on one of the labels which reads: "FACTORY SAMPLE NOT FOR RESALE". Early stickers, such as that seen on this record, are rectangular with triangular ends.

This particular record, along with all others listed for sale in this set of listings, were part of the collection of one of the best known Beatles critics, William Mann. Mann was the music critic for the Times newspaper. His article, "What Songs the Beatles Sang" was perhaps the first to critically review the Beatles as musicians rather than as a social phenomenon.   

Album Details:

Serial number: PCS 7016

Matrix number: YEX 619 - 1G / YEX 620 - 1G

Stamper codes: 1 GL / 3 GP

Vinyl Weight: 140g

The -1G / -1G matrix numbers confirm that the record is a true UK first pressing. The mother & stamper codes communicate that the record was produced early in the production run. Consequently, the audio reproduction is fantastic. Take a listen yourself below!

The labels are the first variant as is evident from the position of the "Sold in U.K. ..." text present on both labels and the 'large' STEREO aural indicator. 

The front side laminated Garrod & Lofthouse sleeve is the first variant as is evident from the 'small' STEREO aural indicator printed in the top right-hand corner on the front and the presence of flip-backs to the reverse. 

The album is complete with the original 'EMI advertising' inner sleeve.

Condition Report:

The condition report provided below is given as a guide only. I include high-quality, comprehensive photographs as well as a complete audio recording in my listings to enable you to make an informed decision on the condition of this record yourself.

Disc: EXCELLENT -

Labels: EXCELLENT +

The labels are clean and retain rich, vibrant colours. The Factory Sample sticker is without damage. A small number of dull spindle mark can be seen around each otherwise unworn centre hole.

Visual: VERY GOOD +

The vinyl retains superb deep gloss playing surfaces. In bright daylight a number of light scuffs can be seen to both sides. There is a small (1cm) feel-able mark on side 1 across tracks 1 and 2. 

Sound Quality: EXCELLENT -

Please note: the eBay app does not facilitate playback. Please use the internet site to enjoy the audio clips.

Side 1:

 

Side 2:

As can be heard in the recordings, the record sounds great. The lead ins are quiet. During the dead-wax between tracks only the sound of a rotating stylus can be heard. Several light pops can be heard during T1S1 and T2S1, "Can't Buy Me Love" and "From Me To You" due to the aforementioned surface mark. All other tracks play through without interruption and grade between EX and EX+. Not perfect but a great listen.

Sleeve: EXCELLENT -

The original sleeve is in fantastic condition. Both sides are bright and clean. The laminate to the front side retains the original lustre, but does show a number of ripples. The cover art is vibrant. The spine is without any major wear. The reverse is clean with only small areas of discolouration. The top edge has some minor wear. The bottom and opening edges are both without wear. 

Inner Sleeve: EXCELLENT 

The original inner sleeve is in great condition. It is very clean, is without any tears or rips, and displays only extremely minor creasing.

 

Additional Details:

Before the audio test, the vinyl was cleaned first by an Okki Nokki vacuum cleaner and then an Audio Desk ultrasonic cleaner.

After cleaning, the vinyl was placed inside a brand new mobile fidelity anti-static inner sleeve.

The vinyl will be packaged outside of the sleeve, both of which are stored inside an archival quality polypropylene outer sleeve.

The record will be sent via an insured courier in a padded vinyl mailer.

 

Please see my other listings for more Beatles rarities.

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