*The Beatles,1962–1966 (The Red Album), Apple Records, Double LP, Red Vinyl, PCSPR 717*
Original UK issue of The Beatles – 1962–1966, commonly known as the “Red Album”, released by Apple Records in 1973 as a stereo double LP on translucent red vinyl. This is the sought-after UK coloured-vinyl edition, pressed by EMI and housed in the original gatefold sleeve with both correct red Apple lyric inner sleeves present.
The set compiles key recordings from the group’s EMI years, covering material originally released between 1962 and 1966, and remains one of the most popular official Beatles retrospective releases. Both records retain strong colour and gloss, with correct UK Apple sliced-apple labels and consistent early matrix numbers throughout.
Technical / Pressing Details
Label: Apple Records
Catalogue number: PCSPR 717
Format: Double LP, stereo
Vinyl: Translucent red vinyl (both records)
Country: UK
Year: 1973
Pressing: EMI, Hayes
Matrix / run-out: Side One: YEX 905-3. Side Two: YEX 906-4. Side Three: YEX 907-3. Side Four: YEX 908-3. These matrices are correct for the original UK red-vinyl issue.
Historical Note:
Released in 1973, 1962–1966 was one of the first officially curated Beatles compilation albums, designed to present the band’s early career in a coherent retrospective format. Issued alongside 1967–1970 (the “Blue Album”), the Red Album introduced a new generation of listeners to the group’s formative recordings while also appealing to collectors through special formats, including this UK red-vinyl pressing, which was produced in comparatively limited numbers.
*Condition*
Sleeve: The original gatefold sleeve shows general age-related wear, including spine cracking and splitting at the ends, edge and corner wear, and handling marks. The front and rear panels retain good colour and remain presentable overall. Graded Good / Good+.. Inner Sleeves: Both original red Apple lyric inner sleeves are present. They show creasing and handling wear consistent with age and use. Graded Good. Vinyl: Both red vinyl records show light surface marks and sleeve scuffs visible under strong light, with no deep scratches or cracks observed. Labels are clean with light spindle wear. Visually graded Very Good (VG). Playback can be expected to exhibit light background noise in places consistent with a VG vintage pressing. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
A fully verified original UK 1973 red-vinyl pressing of The Beatles – 1962–1966, complete with correct gatefold sleeve, matching matrices, and original lyric inner sleeves. An increasingly desirable coloured-vinyl Beatles release, offered here in honest, clearly described condition.
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