Phonoland

Peace. I'm new to these forums.

I have a question that I need as many answers and opinions as possible on. I have a sealed LP record. The problem is it is very old. I was wondering if anybody knew exactly what year they started sealing vinyl record LP's with shrink wrap plastic? This record is from 1957 for a reference point. I had heard from somebody they didn't seal records until the 1960's. But with such a close proximity of dates I'm not sure. It seems to me that they would seal them shut if they could. This is just how I received the record. It's not exactly in perfect shape, there are a few holes in the shrink, and spots where I think moisture might have gotten because the jacket is discolored. There is also a stamp on it that says "Inspected" something or other, although it is quite faded.

Thanks.

Different companies started sealing records at different times. Since I always remove the shrink wrap when I open the album (it causes static electricity if you leave it on), I can't date any of the albums I have for that purpose. But I do know I bought some used albums from the late 1950s with shrink wrap sill on them. One of those was the 1956 Columbia recording "Passport To Romance" by Percy Faith.

Shrink wrap was not there to protect the record as much as it was there to protect the record buyer from unknowingly buying a returned defective record. It also protected the artwork on the jacket.

I've managed to find several sealed LPs on eBay from the 60s and 70s. It's nice to find one brand new, factory sealed, and never played.

FYI--Most record stores, in the mid-late 60's, had a shrink-wrap machine, and replaced the wrap, if/when needed.
All record distrib's. had machines---
Another reason for the shrink wrap--prevent theft--Was easier to slip a record out of the jacket, and under yours(without the "bulky cover")
Ron Rich

A lot of places re-seal records too.
It's a common 'trick' on ebay,
Most 45's were never factory sealed.