AC/DC Back In Black 1st US 1980 Press Vinyl LP MASTERDISK (RL) Robert Ludwig EX

$

200

Item Description

AC/DC – Back In Black (Atlantic – SD 16018)

Pressing features: 1st Original U.S. Press, Stereo, Specialty Pressing, Embossed Cover, Robert Ludwig Masterdisk Mastered 

Matrix: st-a-804518-a masterdisk RL 0-1sm4-1

Notes: A thunderous rebirth and one of rock’s most enduring statements, Back in Black finds AC/DC rising from tragedy with new frontman Brian Johnson after the death of Bon Scott—and delivering a record that would become one of the best-selling albums of all time. Released in 1980, it followed the explosive Highway to Hell and preceded For Those About to Rock We Salute You, marking a pivotal turning point that could have ended the band but instead cemented their legend. Produced by Robert John "Mutt" Lange, the album sharpened their raw sound into something tighter and more anthemic, with iconic tracks like “You Shook Me All Night Long” and the title song becoming rock staples.The album’s all-black cover was a deliberate, minimalist tribute to Bon Scott, underscoring the band’s mourning while signaling defiance. It has been a constant presence on Rolling Stone’s “500 Greatest Albums of All Time,” ranking #84 in the 2020 list, rising significantly from #187 in 2012, reflecting its ever-growing cultural impact.

Vinyl Record grade: VG++ / EX 

Beautiful, well-cared-for record with a strong, glossy finish and only minimal signs of prior handling. Surfaces are exceptionally clean, retaining a rich sheen throughout.

On close inspection under strong light, you will spot scuffs, so that's holding it back from a grade of Near Mint. Otherwise, a superb copy that comfortably sits at the upper end of the scale. 

Cover/Jacket grade: VG+, Jacket shows light signs of handling and age, including shelf wear. Edges are worn, but there are no seam splits and no writing. Despite the wear, the artwork remains vibrant with solid color and good overall eye appeal. There is a notch cut in the top right (see photo).

Other contents: includes original inner sleeve 

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The record has been ultrasonically cleaned and will ship with a premium MoFi inner sleeve and a protective outer sleeve. For added protection, the record will be placed outside of the album jacket within a plastic outer sleeve to prevent seam splits. It will be securely packaged in a reinforced media mailer and clearly labeled as fragile.

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Record Grading Scale (Based on visual inspection)

Sealed / Mint

Used only for factory-sealed items. 

The record remains unopened in its original shrink. Because the record has never been removed from the sleeve, the vinyl itself cannot be visually inspected. Minor corner dings or shrink wrap tears may be present but will be noted in the listing if significant.

Near Mint (NM)

A nearly perfect record.

The vinyl appears unplayed or played very few times and will show no visible scratches, scuffs, or marks. The surface retains full original gloss. This grade is reserved for exceptional copies from well-maintained collections that have been carefully handled and properly stored.

Very Good ++ (VG++) / Excellent 

An excellent copy with only the most minimal signs of handling. 

The record may show one or two extremely faint surface marks or light hairlines visible only under strong light. These marks are purely superficial and should not affect play. The vinyl still presents beautifully with strong gloss.

Very Good + (VG+)

A well-cared-for record that shows light signs of use.

The vinyl may display several light surface marks, hairlines, or superficial scuffs from handling or sleeve contact. These are generally light and difficult to see without careful inspection. Records in this grade typically play very well with minimal background noise.

Very Good (VG) 

A record that has been played and shows clear signs of use.

The vinyl will show noticeable surface marks, scratches, and general play wear. These marks are easily visible and result in some surface noise, but the record should still play through without skipping.

Good + (G+)

A heavily used but still playable record.

The vinyl will show numerous marks, scratches, and visible wear, including scratches that may be deep enough to feel with a fingernail. Surface noise, pops, and crackle should be expected. Despite cosmetic wear, the record should play through without repeating or skipping unless otherwise noted.

Cover/Jacket Grading Scale

Sealed / Mint

Used only for factory-sealed albums in original shrink wrap.

Minor shrink tears, corner dings, or storage wear may be present and will be noted if significant.

Near Mint (NM)

An exceptional cover with virtually no visible wear.

The jacket appears almost new, with sharp corners, clean surfaces, and no ring wear, writing, stickers, or seam splits. This grade is used sparingly for outstanding examples.

Very Good ++ (VG++) / Excellent 

A very attractive cover with only minor cosmetic flaws.

The jacket may show very light ring wear, slightly softened corners, or minimal edge wear. A small sticker or faint writing may be present but does not detract from the overall presentation.

Very Good + (VG+)

A clean, solid cover with moderate signs of handling.

Possible flaws include light ring wear, minor edge wear, small creases, sleeve scuffs, or small stickers/writing. The cover remains structurally sound and displays well.

Very Good (VG)

A cover with clear wear but still fully intact.

The jacket may include more noticeable ring wear, edge wear, or creasing. It may also have a drill hole, cut corner, moderate sticker residue, or a small seam split (approximately 1-3 inches). Corners may be rounded from use.

Good + (G+)

A heavily worn cover with significant cosmetic issues.

Common flaws may include major ring wear, large seam splits, heavy edge wear, major sticker damage, writing or doodles, soft or worn spine, or full split seams. The cover remains complete but shows obvious age and wear.