Beatles-Strawberry Fields-Nr. Mint 1st pic. sleeve/disc
£
42
$
56
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Description
Strawberry Fields Forever / Penny Lane 1967
1st Pressing
R 5570
Matrix: 7XCE 18415-1 and 7XCE 18416-2
Stampers: 2OG and 1MT
The first UK Beatles single to appear with a picture cover, which was limited to a batch of 250,000. These original issues were made from very thin paper, identical to a standard, green, run-of-the-mill, parlophone sleeve. Their flimsiness ultimately meant that few would survive intact. Also, unlike the subsequent black Let It Be sleeve, these were perfect for attracting writing and staining. As you can see from the photos, this one is as good as new, only displaying general age toning and light creasing but no tears, missing paper, or sticker residue. The camera images make the sleeve appear whiter than it actually is.
In keeping with the careful handling of the sleeve, the disc is in astonishing condition. If it wasn't for the presence of a few tiny spindle trails, it could easily pass as unplayed. Even when viewed through a magnifying glass and angled towards a bright light, both vinyl surfaces are pristine and display a beautiful, deep, oily lustre. It is no surprise then, that audio quality is truly mint, with stone cold silents run ins/outs and crystal clear sound throughout.
The solid centre labels are perfect, with all text vibrant and only showing a few light spindle trails.
All in all, a fantastic example which would be hard to better.
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