Market characteristics
- Label design and address details can identify pressing eras.
- Deep groove, RVG and other markings must be interpreted release by release.
- Early originals and premium reissues are different collector products.
Pressing identification
Record artist, title, label, catalog number, country, format, year, label design, jacket details and both matrix/runout inscriptions. Compare all visible identifiers rather than relying on one seller phrase.
Condition and completeness
Grade the record and jacket separately. Note inserts, posters, obi strips, lyric sheets, custom inner sleeves, hype stickers and any writing or station marks. A scarce pressing with missing original material may trade differently from a complete copy.