What the term means
Fragile cut discs, reference lacquers and unique production material. The term should be supported by label, catalog, matrix, packaging and provenance evidence rather than seller enthusiasm.
Identification checks
- Do not clean or play casually.
- Surface can deteriorate or delaminate.
- Specialist authentication and preservation may be needed.
Condition and market
Compare equivalent copies with the same pressing type, country, completeness and condition. A rare format can still have limited demand, and a later pressing can sometimes outperform an original because of sound, packaging or availability.