Hi, I’m Riley, owner of Glitter Records and a huge fan of rare vinyl records. Since opening Glitter Records here in Brisbane two years ago, I’ve watched the market for rare vinyl evolve in ways I never expected. This journey has deepened my appreciation for music as a collectible, and it’s also inspired me to dive deeper into the world of arts and antiques.
The Growing Market for Rare Vinyl Records and Collectibles
I’m now studying to become a chartered surveyor of arts and antiques. Why? Because vinyl has become an increasingly important part of the broader collectibles market. This change is exciting for both music lovers and investors. But it’s also raised the need for specialized expertise.
Over the past decade, rare vinyl records have become highly sought after, with prices climbing steadily. For example, in the last few weeks alone an early US Vee-Jay release of Introducing the Beatles and a rare pressing of Introducing Johnny Griffin on Blue Note sold for A$7,000 and A$10,000 on eBay. Topping both an obscure soul record called Soft Sexy Soul by Susan Phillips sold for over A$30,000 on Discogs in September. If these prices intrigue you, I’ve included an interesting list of some of September’s big sellers at the end of this article.
Today even lesser-known rarities, like Northern Soul 45s or obscure punk 7″ singles, can fetch thousands. The market has shifted from niche to luxury, with factors like rarity, condition, and historical significance now driving value. Surprisingly, even institutional investment advisers —such as Deloitte—are starting to eye collectibles like vinyl records as a viable alternative asset class within investment portfolios. I kid you not!
An Unprecedented Number of Sound Recordings are Becoming Antiques
What excites me most about this shift is that recorded music is also now an art form over 147 years old. This means that in the coming decades, an unprecedented number of sound recordings will reach the status of century-old antiques. At Glitter Records, I have the privilege of curating a collection of old, rare, and beautiful recordings, including Edison cylinders and shellac 78s dating back to 1916. Remarkably, many still play beautifully! Their durability and historical significance make collectible sound recordings truly unique. This is why I believe the market must be approached with greater care and expertise.
The Importance of Integrity in the Vinyl Records Market
That’s where my study of art and antique surveying comes in. In an industry driven by competition and short-term gains, integrity is key. The world of music can move fast, with trends and values shifting quickly. I want to offer honest, thoughtful appraisals, using the same standards found in the art and antiques world. Research, provenance, and authenticity are crucial.
Pursuing a Chartered Surveyor Qualification with RICS
I’m studying to become a chartered surveyor of arts and antiques with RICS (The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors), which is an international professional body incorporated by a Royal Charter from Queen Victoria in the UK in 1881. This qualification will help ensure that Glitter Records offers transparency and professionalism. My aim isn’t just to better value records—it’s to build trust and offer objective advice in a growing, sometimes complicated market.
Helping Collectors Understand the Value of Their Rare Vinyl Records
Some customers are surprised to learn that a sealed 1971 New Zealand copy of Joni Mitchell’s Blue they bought as a teenager is now worth hundreds of dollars. Others are disappointed when a record their grandfather once bought from a thrift store is worth just a few dollars. My goal is to help people understand the true, fair market value value of what they have. Too often, local buyers and sellers misrepresent values to make a quick trade. My view at Glitter Records is that when it comes to rare vinyl, there’s no place for guesswork or foggy prices—just honest, informed assessments.
Why Vinyl Records Are Valuable Assets and How to Protect Them
One thing many collectors are not aware of is that their rare vinyl and even CD collections aren’t just valuable—they are assets that can offer financial security. A professional valuation gives collectors peace of mind that their records are properly recognized and protected. It also makes it easier to pass them on gradually. Selling a large collection in a hurry is often stressful and results in a lower final value than a slower more strategic approach. My view is that a few minutes reflecting on whether downsizing slowly and enjoyably is right for you can be a good exercise. The key to all of this is knowing the value of what you have.
Final Thoughts
Thank you for taking the time to hear my thoughts. It has been a pleasure sharing my perspective on how this part of the music world is evolving. I hope that by sharing the story of my journey, I can offer insights that deepen your own connection with music. If you have any questions, want to discuss records, or are interested in exploring music further, please feel free to reach out. Once again, my name is Riley, owner of Glitter Records, and I am at your service.
Rarest Records Sold in September 2024: Highest to Lowest Prices
The following list has been compiled from the top sales on Omega Auctions, eBay, and Discogs in September. While it is by no means exhaustive, it provides a solid overview of the records that are achieving the highest sales values. This snapshot highlights trends in the market for rare vinyl and showcases the most sought-after titles amongst collectors.
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Soft Sexy Soul – Susan Phillips (1971) – A$ 32000 – Discogs
- World’s Experience Orchestra on J-World BSE 1 – A$ 8645 – eBay
- The Beatles Introducing the Beatles US Orig ’64 VJ Mono Version 2 Sticker Sealed – A$ 7990 – eBay
- Feelings – Jay Richford & Gary Stevan (1974) – A$ 7208 – Discogs
- “Here Without You” – Doc Peabody (1973) – A$ 7200 – Discogs
- Kiss – Kiss (1974) – A$ 6800 – Discogs
- Buddy Smith “When You Lose The One…” Northern Soul 45 – A$ 6264 – eBay
- Cherry Five – Cherry Five (1975) – A$ 6182 – Discogs
- Funky Stuff – Jiro Inagaki & Soul Media (1975) – A$ 5600 – Discogs
- The Velvet Underground & Nico LP – A$ 5433 – Omega Auctions
- Misfits Earth A.D. Wolfs Blood LP – A$ 4874 – eBay
- Kick It Off – Kenyatta (1974) – A$ 4800 – Discogs
- Ernestine Eady – “Let’s Talk It Over” Northern Soul 45 – A$ 4781 – eBay
- Lexicon Devil – The Germs (1978) – A$ 4742 – Discogs
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Musiche Per Commento – Ennio Morricone (1970) – A$ 4736 – Discogs
- “I’m Lost Without Your Love” – Bee Vee And The Honey Bee (1978) – A$ 4720 – Discogs
- Servicemen “Sweet Magic” Northern Soul Original 45 – A$ 4650 – eBay
- Modern Soul Disco 45 – Frazelle “Today Is The Day” – A$ 4650 – eBay
- Feelings – Jay Richford & Gary Stevan (1974) – A$ 4505 – Discogs
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The Beatles vs The Four Seasons US Orig ’64 Vee-Jay DX-30 Mono 2LP Set – A$ 4432 – eBay
- PINK FLOYD DARK SIDE OF THE MOON Solid Blue 1st Mint- – A$ 3908 – eBay
- Them – Master Tape – A$ 2992 – Omega Auctions
- David Bowie – Limited Edition Ryko Box Set – A$ 2431 – Omega Auctions
- The Clash – The Clash LP – A$ 2244 – Omega Auctions
- Oasis – Oasis (2009 LP Box Set) – A$ 1683 – Omega Auctions
- Coldplay – Chris Martin School Tape – A$ 1590 – Omega Auctions
- The Human Beast – Volume One LP – A$ 1590 – Omega Auctions