The Smiths: The Queen is Dead UK First Pressing Archive Quality Copy
£
32
$
43
Favourite Auctions
To save auctions to your favourites, please login
If you don't have an account, please register
Description
The Smiths: The Queen is Dead (UK First Pressing Archive Quality Copy)
The Copy
I have for sale an outstanding copy of the Smiths seminal third album, The Queen is Dead. Is Side 2 the best side of an album ever recorded? I think it is. If you’re in a darkened underpass your chance has definitely come at last. The condition really is exceptional for an LP which, is now almost 35 years old. The matrix run outs read:
Side1: ROUGH 96 A – 2u - 1 – 1 x 1 FEAR OF MANCHESTER
Side2: ROUGH 96 B - 1u - 1 – 1 x 1 THEM WAS ROTTEN DAYS
The matrices indicate that this is the second 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 scratches, skips, jumps or sticks. Play tested on my Sansui XP-99 with a Goldring Elan cartridge the music is crystal clear with minimal surface noise between tracks and on the run ins. It really is a lovely listen. I grade it as a conservative VG+ but it could easily be assessed as Near Mint.
The Labels
The labels are pristine with no spindle wear or marks.
The Outer Sleeve
The gatefold outer sleeve is in Near Mint condition and sports the pink “Includes the Singles” 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 Wooliesin June 1986. There are no creases, splits or ringwear.
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 alook 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.
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 buyer/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.
price rating
