Camden Records Appraisal

Elvis' Christmas Album 8-Track Tape (Pickwick/Camden CBS-9001)

This item is an 8-track tape featuring 'Elvis' Christmas Album,' released under the Pickwick label by arrangement with RCA Records. The physical cartridge is a rectangular, beige or off-white plastic shell with a slightly textured surface. It appears to be a standard size for an 8-track tape, likely measuring approximately 5-1/4 inches long by 4 inches wide and about 7/8 inches thick. The top edge of the cartridge features a distinct, rectangular indentation for the tape head, characteristic of the 8-track format. The label adhered to the front of the tape is a multi-color graphic on a blue background. The title 'ELVIS' CHRISTMAS ALBUM' is prominently displayed in red and white stylized fonts, with 'ELVIS'' arching above 'CHRISTMAS ALBUM'. A central circular illustration depicts a smiling Elvis Presley, wearing a teal-colored shirt, framed by a red ribbon wreath adorned with green holly and red berries, typical Christmas imagery. Below the portrait, 'PICKWICK' is printed in bold capital letters, with 'BY ARRANGEMENT WITH RCA RECORDS' directly underneath. To the right, 'CAMDEN' is visible above the catalog number 'CBS-9001'. A small 'P' logo, likely for Pickwick, is in the top left corner of the label. There are visible signs of wear and age on both the cartridge and the label. The plastic cartridge shows scuffs, dirt, and some discoloration or yellowing consistent with decades of use and environmental exposure. There's a noticeable dark mark on the top edge of the cartridge, near the center. The label itself shows some creasing, particularly around the edges and bottom, and there are small white flecks or scratches that indicate loss of graphic integrity, especially within the blue background around the title and images. The overall condition suggests this item is vintage, likely from the 1970s when the 8-track format was popular. The craftsmanship is typical of mass-produced audio cartridges of that era, valuing functionality and affordability over intricate design. The unique aspect here is the combination of the iconic artist, the holiday theme, and the vintage 8-track format, making it a collectible item for enthusiasts of both Elvis Presley and retro audio technology.