The Beatles, Please Please Me: VERY RARE UK 4th Press STEREO * G & L Sleeve *

	£		122
	$		162

For sale is a copy of The Beatles debut album, Please Please Me.

This is an original UK Stereo 4th Pressing produced in 1963 which features the sought-after yellow and black Parlophone labels.

In 1963 most records sold were MONO and therefore STEREO copies are much, much rarer.

The majority of early Beatles LP’s were issued with sleeves produced by E J Day & co. However, this copy has an extremely rare Garrod & Lofthouse flip back sleeve. 

In short, this is an extremely rare record that is in fantastic condition.

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 flip back sleeve

·      Large STEREO on the front of the sleeve

·      Black labels with yellow Parlophone logo and silver writing

·      STEREO printed in silver above Parlophone on the labels

·      ‘Recording first published 1963’ printed over two lines on the label

·      No ‘Sold in the U.K. …’ text on either label

·      ‘PCS 3042’ catalogue number

·      Matrix numbers YEX 94-1 (side 1) & YEX 95-1 (side 2)

The Mother Stampers for this record are: 1 GR (side 1) and 1 M (side 2) indicating that this record was produced very early in the production run.

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 to include an audio description. 

I use the Goldmine standard as a reference for grading. 

Vinyl: Very Good +

The vinyl is in superb condition.

Both sides of the vinyl surface retain the original gloss sheen.

Although not obvious, the residue from the application of a cleaning agent can be picked up in bright light on both sides. I have cleaned the record thoroughly several times but cannot remove this. It does not effect playback.

The labels are bright and clean but do show subtle rubbing around the spindle hole.

The audio on both sides is superb; accurately graded as Excellent.

There is great channel separation, clear vocals and punchy basslines.

Sleeve: Very Good +

The sleeve is in great condition.

The front is very clean without any signs of discolouration.

This rear is remarkably clean and without any damage to the fragile flip backs.

There is a short seam split on the top edge and a little damage to the spine as can be seen in the photographs.

Despite this, the corners are strong, and the remainder of the spine and edges are distinct.

Inner Sleeve: Very Good +

The original tracing paper lined Emitex die cut inner sleeve is in great condition.

It is very clean but does show some subtle signs of discolouration. 

Otherwise, it shows 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. 

This is a fantastic example of an increasingly rare and extremely sought-after record that would be a fantastic addition to any record collection.

The album is housed within a premium quality polythene outer sleeve. The vinyl is separate to the sleeve.

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

For UK shipments I use Royal Mail guaranteed next day delivery. 

Similar options are available for international bidders.  Please enquire for more details and an accurate estimate of the postage cost. 

If you have any questions, please ask! 

Check out my other items. I’m selling some rarities from my collection!