Pink Floyd Dark Side of the Moon 1973 Rare UK 2nd press A-3/B-2 Navy Sleeve
£
120
$
159
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Description
This is an extremely rare UK second issue transitional pressing — one of the scarcest and most sought-after early variants of this legendary album.
These were only produced for a very short window during the changeover from the first pressing to the later represses. On top of that, this copy features the rare navy blue gatefold sleeve — already difficult to find — and even more unusually, it has no front sticker.
According to collector records, only a small number of the navy blue copies were released without the sticker, making this a genuinely mythical combination that most serious collectors will never even see.
Key identifying features of this ultra-rare transitional pressing:
• Solid blue triangle labels with the earliest “blue outline prism” design
• A-3 / B-2 matrix in the dead wax
• Original “The Gramophone Co. Ltd” rim text
• Rare navy blue gatefold sleeve with no front sticker (comparison photo included showing it against a standard black sleeve)
Includes:
• Original A2-sized poster
• Both original postcard stickers
Condition descriptions below :-)
Gatefold Sleeve:
Excellent for a 53-year-old transitional pressing. The navy blue colour is rich and stands out dramatically from later black sleeves (see comparison photo). There is only light, honest age-related wear — minor scratches and scuffs — but no splits, no writing, and no heavy damage. The artwork is bold and the famous prism design remains crisp and striking.
The Vinyl:
Both sides of the record are glossy with a strong, healthy shine. There are some light surface marks and hairlines visible under light, but nothing deep. It’s in fantastic condition considering it’s over 50 years old.
They play beautifully with excellent sound quality and no major issues — a real pleasure to listen to.
This is a true piece of rock & roll history — a short-run transitional second issue with the rare navy blue sleeve and no front sticker. These are becoming almost impossible to find complete, and this is easily one of the most unique and desirable early pressings of The Dark Side of the Moon you’ll ever come across.
All photos show the exact item you will receive, including the navy blue vs black sleeve comparison.
It will be expertly packed with strong protection for the gatefold, poster, and vinyl, and shipped fully tracked.
UK & international buyers welcome.
A genuine transitional second issue with the rare navy blue sleeve and no front sticker — a must-have for any serious Pink Floyd collector. This is proper early history.
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