Vinyl Records: What Are Key Factors That Affect Their Value?
Have you ever wondered how much your vinyl collection is worth? Despite the emergence of new ways to listen to music, such as CDs, and the cloud, vinyl records don’t seem to have gone out of fashion. Many people still shell out quite a lot for particular records!
Vinyl Record Value
You might think that the longer you’ve had a vinyl record, the more it’s worth. Although some things might be worth more because of their age, you should know the value of your records so you don’t overprice your products or sell them for less than they are worth.
Here are some of the key factors that affect the overall value of vinyl records:
THE FACTOR: Availability
WHY: It's easy to explain this one simply by chalking it up to the law of supply and demand. The rarer a vinyl record is, then its value rises considerably as well.
Popular records back in the day over multiple genres were produced in the millions and are readily available. Because these records are so popular, they will not fetch as much money-unless, of course, there's some kind of unique twist. (Like genuine autographs!)
On the other hand, some vinyl albums that were once popular may now be increasingly rare and thus more valuable. For example, Beatles and Rolling Stones records were played until they were completely worn out, but these days finding even one of these albums in good condition can be tough.
THE FACTOR: The Artist
WHY: Music is more beloved when it's from an artist the listener adores. This is why artist names play a big role in the value of vinyl records. Even if a record is in great condition, if the artist isn't really that known, it still won't fetch a high price compared to a slightly worn yet very popular and/or outright beloved artist.
Incredibly popular artists whose records are collectible even if they stopped recording ages ago include, but are not limited to:
- Elvis Presley
- Jethro Tull
- The Beatles
- The Bee Gees
- The Mamas & The Papas
- The Rolling Stones
Some little-known artists' vinyls could still possibly see a rise in value. If a modern-day celebrity ends up covering one of the lesser-known originals of an older song, there are high hopes there. The moment the cover becomes popular, the original of this cover also becomes popular and its value rises in turn.
THE FACTOR: The Record's Overall Condition
WHY: One of the first qualities collectors look for when attempting to determine the value of a vinyl record is its condition. Smooth, scratch-free surfaces are preferable over others that are marred by deep scratches. Most record albums produced on vinyl have endured a lot of use, and many albums have had their covers damaged or portions written on as well. Some may have additional damage as well, such as abrasions or large scratches across the surface.
Collectors generally prefer to buy records that are in pristine condition or at least those records that haven’t endured any additional abuse.
Finding records over 20 years old but still in mint condition is rare these days. Most records that old have been destroyed, lost, or left to mold in a basement or attic. In those very few cases when collectors find such an item, they’d be willing to pay a lot in a heartbeat.
Conclusion
Vinyl records are, without a doubt, fun collectibles for many music lovers all over the world. However, their value can vary considerably based on a number of factors. This includes availability, the artist and the record's condition.
Looking for music collectibles like vinyl records? Shop at Selling The Collectors Collection today! We’ve got limited edition collectibles for music lovers from collectors finally willing to part with their precious rarities involving the likes of the Beatles to Zeppelin.