The Pentangle Debut LP 1968 UK 1st Press Transatlantic TRA 162 Purple Label VG+

$

40

Up for sale is a gorgeous, highly collectible UK first pressing of The Pentangle's self-titled debut LP, released in 1968 on Transatlantic Records (TRA 162). This album is a cornerstone of the 1960s British folk-rock revival, showcasing the dual-acoustic guitar wizardry of Bert Jansch and John Renbourn alongside Jacqui McShee’s stunning vocals.

Condition Details:

• Media (VG+): The vinyl is exceptionally clean, retaining a high gloss shine and mirror finish. It play-tests wonderfully, delivering a strong, vibrant soundstage with just a rare, occasional pop here or there. The purple and white "globe" Transatlantic labels are pristine.

• Sleeve (VG): This is the original UK-manufactured front-laminated sleeve with unlaminated rear flipbacks. It remains in very solid, crisp shape. The glossy front laminate shows typical light spider-creasing near the spine and a very minor spot of edge delamination, but the seams are completely intact, the spine text is legible, and the white backgrounds are bright and unsoiled.

True UK first pressings of this acoustic masterpiece in this kind of play-grade condition do not come around often. Please review the high-resolution photos for a detailed look at the labels and laminate gloss. Shipped securely in a professional cardboard record mailer with the vinyl removed from the jacket to prevent seam splits in transit.

Grading System I use is summarized below for reference - Grade for Cover / Media is in 'Item Specifics' section above.  Further detail of condition may be noted above in description. All items are Visually graded unless stated otherwise (how it plays is mentioned in the description) - records may play differently than they look visually. If you are interesting in multiple records I can combine shipping, just shoot me a message!

Near Mint (NM or M-)

A record that has more than likely never been played, the record should show no obvious signs of wear. A 45 RPM or EP sleeve should have no more than the most minor defects, such as any sign of slight handling. An LP cover should have no creases, folds, seam splits, cut-out holes, or other noticeable similar defects. The same should be true of any other inserts, such as posters, lyric sleeves, etc.  

Very Good Plus (VG+) 

The record may show some signs that it was played and otherwise handled by a previous owner who took good care of it. Defects should be more of a cosmetic nature, not affecting the actual playback as a whole, maybe a rare pop here or there. Record surfaces may show some signs of wear and may have slight scuffs or very light scratches that don't affect one's listening experiences at great impact. Slight warps that do not affect the sound are "OK". The label may have some ring wear or discoloration, but it should be barely noticeable. Spindle marks may be present. Picture sleeves and inner sleeves will have some slight wear, slightly turned-up corners, or a slight seam split. An LP cover may have slight signs of wear, and may be marred by a cut-out hole, indentation, or cut corner. In general, if not for a couple of minor things wrong with it, this would be Near Mint.  

Very Good (VG) 

Many of the defects found in a VG+ record will be more pronounced in a VG disc. Surface noise may be evident upon playing, especially in soft passages and/or during a song's intro and fade, but should not overpower the music otherwise. Labels may be marred by writing, or have tape or stickers (or their residue) attached. The same will be true of picture sleeves or LP covers. However, it will not have all of these problems at the same time.

Good (G), Good Plus (G+) 

A record in Good or Good Plus condition can be played through without skipping. But it will have significant surface noise, scratches, and visible groove wear. A cover or sleeve will likely have seam splits, especially at the bottom or on the spine. Tape, writing, ring wear, or other defects may be present. While the record will be playable without skipping, noticeable surface noise and "ticks" will almost certainly accompany the playback.  

Poor (P), Fair (F)

The record is likely showcasing some of the following - cracked, badly warped, and won't play through without skipping or repeating. If a picture sleeve there may be some of the following: water damage, split on all seams up to 3 and heavily marred by wear and writing. The LP cover barely keeps the LP inside it. Inner sleeves likely are fully split, crinkled, and/or written upon.