🔎 Research: $19K Beatles Misprint

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Research Exercise: Discover the Hidden Value of a Beatles Record

Objective: Use the recommended research tools (collectible, music, showbiz) listed on the map to track this item's financial value across multiple venues over time, examining how specific details within venue descriptions impact its collectible and cultural significance.

Beatles record

Background

In 2012, a rare unsigned Beatles promotional record featuring two songs—Love Me Do and P.S. I Love You—sold for $19,586 on eBay. The record gained its value from a unique set of features, including its rarity, an early release date, and an intriguing misspelling on the label.

According to the seller, only 250 copies of this promo were pressed and distributed by Parlophone in 1962, prior to correcting the misspelling. The misspelled name, which appears as "McArtney" instead of "McCartney" on both sides of the record, is a small detail but an essential factor that helped elevate its value.

Listed as being in excellent condition, this record attracted serious interest from collectors. Over a 10-day auction, it received 48 bids from 12 bidders, beginning with a 99-cent starting bid. The auction concluded on April 27, 2012, at 11:11 a.m. PST, with the final bid reaching nearly $20,000.

For additional information and close-up photos of the misspelling, research this record using specialty auction house tools listed on the map. Note that eBay does not retain long-term auction links and close-up photos, they generally expire shortly after an item has sold.

Exercise Steps

  1. Match the Error

    Use the specialty auction house tools listed on the map to locate similar Beatles promo records. Compare these listings to identify any matches with the misspelling of Paul McCartney's name. This exercise focuses on familiarizing yourself with specialty venues that offer tools and resources for identifying collectible details that enhance value.

  2. Compare Conditions

    Search for and compare listings that describe the item’s condition. How does a description like "excellent condition" affect the value? Note any differences in pricing based on stated quality or year of pressing.

  3. Auction Insights

    Review historical sale prices for similar items. Consider how factors like rarity, early distribution date, and unique printing errors may influence a record's final bid amount.

  4. Reflect and Conclude

    Summarize your findings, including how this type of printing error can increase collector interest and value. Reflect on the role of specialty tools in uncovering collectible history.

 

Important Considerations

This example provides a high-level overview, followed by steps to guide your research process. Combining reading comprehension with hands-on exploration, it makes for a practical research exercise. Keep in mind that when specific details adding value to an item become widely known, they can sometimes be forged, impacting value assessments. For accurate evaluations, it’s always best to consult reputable specialists before making important buying or selling decisions.