The Beatles Help Vinyl XEX-549/550-2 1964-69 Liverpool UK Import PMC-1255 #3
$
85
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Description
The Beatles “Help!” (UK Mono, PMC 1255)
Album Details
• Artist: The Beatles
• Title: Help!
• Label: Parlophone (Yellow/Black label, “£” logo)
• Catalog Number: PMC 1255
• Format: 12” LP, Mono, 33⅓ RPM
• Country: UK
• Release Year: 1965
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Sleeve
• Front: Garrod & Lofthouse laminated flipback sleeve with mono printed in upper right corner.
• Back: Features Emitex cleaning ad, “Garrod & Lofthouse Ltd. Patents pending” credit, and catalogue number PMC 1255 at top right.
• Condition: Moderate laminate creasing and age wear; still intact, graded VG.
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Labels
• Parlophone Yellow/Black “£” logo.
• “SOLD IN U.K. SUBJECT TO RESALE PRICE CONDITIONS, SEE PRICE LISTS” text present (used 1964–1969).
• Rim text: “The Gramophone Co. Ltd… Made in Gt. Britain”.
• Publishing credits correct (Northern Songs, NCB, Mecolico, BIEM).
• Both labels clean with only light spindle wear (VG+).
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Matrix & Stamper Codes
• Side 1: XEX 549-2
• Stamper code: RHH (confirmed in photo)
• Side 2: XEX 550-2
• Stamper code: ADD (confirmed in photo)
This indicates both sides are second lacquer cuts (-2/-2), pressed at EMI’s Hayes plant during the original release period. The presence of RHH and ADD confirms authentic EMI mother/stamper use, not a later recut or reissue.
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Vinyl Condition
• Visual: Noticeable surface marks and scuffs visible under strong light (see detailed close-up). Some scratches appear superficial but could produce surface noise.
• Overall: VG- to VG.
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Collector Notes
• This is an authentic UK mono first issue of Help! — the preferred Beatles mix in 1965.
• Mono copies are more collectible than stereo, especially in their original -2/-2 tube-cut form.
• While not a rare variant, the presence of early EMI mother/stamper codes adds credibility as a true mid-1960s pressing.
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