15 Vinyl Records That Are Now Worth More Than You’d Expect
Everything old is new again. In recent years, vinyl records have skyrocketed in popularity, with some rare albums fetching astronomical sums. Certain records — especially those with limited pressings, rare editions, or autographs from band members — are now worth far more than their original asking price. For collectors, identifying these gems can turn a modest collection into a goldmine.
From classic rock to grunge and punk, here are 15 vintage vinyl records you may already own that are worth serious cash today.
1. The Beatles: ‘The White Album’ (1968, Serial No. 0000001)
This edition — with the coveted serial number of 0000001 — was the first copy ever pressed and was originally owned by Beatles drummer Ringo Starr. In 2015, it sold for over $790,000 at auction. Its value comes from being both a low-numbered pressing and a unique part of Beatles history. If you own a copy signed by all band members, it would be worth even more.
2. Queen: ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ (1978, Blue Vinyl Pressing)
This blue-vinyl pressing of Queen’s iconic single “Bohemian Rhapsody” was produced as a special edition for radio stations and industry insiders. Since only a handful of copies were released for promotional purposes, this album (in pristine condition) can sell for several thousand dollars on resale sites like eBay or Etsy. In 2015, a signed copy sold at auction for £4,000 (almost $5,000).
3. Nirvana: ‘Bleach’ (1989, Sub Pop Original Pressing)
The first 1,000 copies of Nirvana’s “Bleach” album were pressed on white vinyl. One of these original pressings can command high sums (about $3,000) due to its scarcity and the band’s later worldwide success. These early vinyl runs are particularly prized by collectors — not only for their rarity, but also for capturing the raw, unpolished sound of the band’s early days.
4. Elvis Presley: ‘My Happiness’ (1953)
This record, which was the first acetate recording Elvis Presley ever made, sold for a staggering $300,000 in 2015. Highly sought after by collectors for its historic significance as Presley’s first known recording, it was famously purchased by Jack White of The White Stripes. White had the recording professionally restored and re-released on vinyl through his own label.
5. Bob Dylan: ‘The Freewheelin’ Bob Dylan’ (1963, Withdrawn Edition)
The initial pressing of this Bob Dylan record featured four songs that were abruptly withdrawn due to licensing issues. But this rare version commands high prices at auction, with the album valued at over $35,000, according to Rare Records. Collectors value it for its unique track list, making it one of the most sought-after Dylan records out there.
6. David Bowie: ‘Space Oddity’ (1969, Gold Disc)
An original gold disc pressing of Bowie’s “Space Oddity” from 1969 can sell for over $10,000. Collectors prize it for its extreme rarity, as well as its connection to Bowie’s iconic breakout hit and its significance in his early career. With only 50 copies known to exist, signed versions or those kept in their original laminated sleeves can command even higher prices.
7. The Velvet Underground & Nico: ‘Acetate Demo’ (1966)
This demo, which features early versions of several songs that appeared on their debut album, is extremely rare. With only one copy known to exist, it sold for $25,000 on eBay in 2006. Its value lies in its one-of-a-kind nature and its importance in the history of alternative rock.
8. Pink Floyd: ‘The Wall’ (1979, Early Pressings)
This version of “The Wall,” complete with puzzle-like artwork and original inserts, can easily sell for over $100. Collectors value these pressings for their connection to the band’s early days and creative process.
9. Prince: ‘The Black Album’ (1987)
Prince decided to withdraw this album just before its release, making original vinyl pressings of this album extremely rare and sought after. A copy sold for $27,500 in a 2018 auction. This album’s mystique and rarity fuel its high price among memorabilia collectors, especially given Prince’s enigmatic and flashy persona.
10. The Rolling Stones: ‘Street Fighting Man’ (1968, Picture Sleeve)
Only a handful of original picture sleeves were produced for this single before being pulled due to concerns over its imagery, which depicted police brutality. Because of its rarity, copies in mint condition have sold for over $17,000. Its rarity and controversial nature make it one of the most expensive Rolling Stones’ collectibles out there.
11. Fleetwood Mac: ‘Rumours’ (1977, Test Pressing)
This rare test pressing of Fleetwood Mac’s “Rumours” album can easily sell for over $100. These early pressings, which were created to ensure sound quality before mass production, are considered ultra-rare and valuable among collectors and fans of the band.
12. Frank Wilson: ‘Do I Love You (Indeed I Do)’ (1965)
With only two copies known to exist, this Motown single sold for around $31,800 at an auction in 2009. Originally intended for distribution before being abruptly pulled by the label, the album’s status as a Motown classic have made it a rare gem among collectors of the genre. You can also buy a signed copy online for about $250.
13. Michael Jackson: ‘Thriller’ (1982, Signed Copy)
You may be able to find copies of “Thriller” in most record stores, but signed copies are another story. The album’s esteemed reputation as the best-selling album of all time further drives its value, with copies donning Jackson’s signature selling for a whopping $20,000 or more.
14. Led Zeppelin: ‘Led Zeppelin’ (1969, Turquoise Lettering)
The very first pressing of Led Zeppelin’s groundbreaking debut album had turquoise lettering on the cover instead of the usual orange print. Copies in mint condition can sell for around $2,000, with signed copies commanding much more. Its value stems from both the rare misprint and the connection it has to one of the most famous rock bands in the world.
15. Wu-Tang Clan: ‘Once Upon a Time in Shaolin’ (2015)
This one-of-a-kind album by the acclaimed hip-hop group sold for a staggering $2 million to an anonymous buyer in 2015. With only a few copies still in circulation, the record came with strict terms of ownership that included an 88-year ban on commercial distribution. The record was previously owned by Martin Shkreli (you may know him as “Pharma Bro), a controversial pharmaceutical executive who increased the cost of the life-saving drug Daraprim by 5,000%. He was later sentenced to seven years in jail.