The Smiths Hatful of Hollow UK First Pressing VG+ Near Mint Sleeve

	£		25
	$		33

The Smiths: Hatful Of Hollow UK First Pressing VG VG+

The Copy

I have for sale a very nice copy of the Smiths outstanding first compilation album, Hatful Of Hollow. If you’d like to bicycle on a hillside desolate then this is the one for you. The condition is overall very good for an LP which, is now over 36 years old. The matrix run outs read:

Side1: ROUGH 76 A1 THE IMPOTENCE OF ERNEST

Side2: ROUGH 76 B1 IAN (EIRE)

The matrices indicate that this is the first variant of the first pressing and is definitely the genuine article.

The Vinyl

Both sides retain their original sheen and have minimal surface paper scuffing. There are no skips, jumps or sticks. Play tested on my Sansui XP-99 with a Goldring Elan cartridge the music is clear with minimal surface noise that does not overpower the music but can be heard in the quieter sections. There is however, discernible noise on the run ins and between tracks. I don't clean vinyl before selling as it’s such a minefield. I would say though, that this copy would benefit from a professional clean. I favour the ultrasonic method and can recommend a service to you if you wish. Despite the surface noise it is overall a lovely listen. I grade it as a conservative VG but it does play VG+ in parts.

The Labels

The labels are in very good condition with a small amount of spindle wear on Side 1 and barely visible spindle marks on both sides.

The Outer Sleeve

This is where this copy comes into its own. The gatefold outer sleeve i sin virtually mint condition and sports the blue “Maximum RRP £3.99”sticker which, is also mint. There are minor indications of use on the opening corners. There are no corner dinks, creases, splits or ringwear. The spine is totally unmarked and fully legible.

The Inner Sleeve

The Inner Sleeve is as shiny as it was the day it came home from Woolies in November 1984. There are no creases, splits or ringwear. There are however, some barely visible brown spots; possibly tea splatter?

Pricing

I look at a variety of sources to try to work out what the market value of each record I sell is and set the starting bid accordingly. I use the Goldmine grading system and try to be fair with each grading and description so you get exactly what you see on the tin. I know it’s a subjective business though so tend to grade conservatively so as not to disappoint. You need to remember though that the value of a near mint copy is going to be significantly more than one which, is only VG. I usually offer an auction with a starting price and the opportunity to make an offer. Please be aware that the Starting Price is the minimum I will accept so if you make an offer that’s less then it will be rejected.

My Philosophy

I’m a collector too and operate on the principle that I treat others as I would wish to be treated myself; hence the comprehensive description and an offer to provide further photos, videos or answers to any questions you may have. Just drop me a message. Also, please have a look at my recent feedback and you’ll see that I am a genuine safe seller.

Postage and Packing

Over £50: If the selling price is more than £50 I will only ship in the UK via Royal Mail guaranteed next day by 1pm. This is because that service provides insurance of up to £500 for everyone’s peace of mind and I have found it to be a safe reliable method. It costs £7.65 which, is what I charge you.  Please await an invoice before paying

Under £50: If the selling price is less than £50 I will ship via Royal Mail Second Class Signed For. This service provides insurance for up to £50. It costs £4.20 which is what I charge you.

I will message you a picture of the package when it is ready for dispatch. I will then provide you with the tracking number both via a message and on the listing. Most of my auctions end on a Sunday evening. I aim to ship first thing on a Monday morning. If this timetable slips then I will contact you to advise and offer a refund of the purchase price if you no longer wish to go ahead with the purchase.

There is no charge for packaging or time. I can combine postage on up to two albums but please remember double albums count as two. If you want combined postage then please contact me before paying and I will issue you with an invoice.

The album will be separated from the outer sleeve and both will be housed in a soft polythene cover. I will use a recycled Music Max (or similar) mailer and a cardboard stiffener.

Local pick up in Leicester is also possible as is hand delivery by me in the East Midlands for the cost of fuel. If you wish either of these then please contact me before payment.

Overseas buyers/bidders are welcome but please do not pay until you receive an invoice. The invoice will include the cost of insured shipping via an international courier and any extra selling costs incurred by me.