Sci Fi Vinyl Appraisal

Doctor Who Picture Disc Vinyl Record

This item is a circular picture disc vinyl record featuring artwork related to the popular British science fiction television series, 'Doctor Who'. The record appears to be approximately 10 to 12 inches in diameter, consistent with a standard LP or 12-inch single, though the exact size cannot be determined without a reference. The primary motif on the visible side of the disc is a colorful illustration depicting several actors who portrayed the Doctor, arranged in a horizontal line. From left to right, the recognized Doctors include the First (William Hartnell), Second (Patrick Troughton), Third (Jon Pertwee), Fourth (Tom Baker), and Fifth (Peter Davison). The vibrant, stylized portraits suggest a particular artistic rendering rather than photographic images. Above the Doctors, the iconic 'Doctor Who' logo, rendered in yellow text with a distinctive stylistic font, is prominently displayed against a darker background. Towards the bottom right of the disc's face, a miniature image of the TARDIS (the Doctor's time machine and spacecraft, shaped like a blue police box) is visible. Below the TARDIS, a small rectangular logo reads 'BBC records & tapes', indicating the manufacturer or distributor and suggesting an official release. The record is encased in a clear plastic sleeve, which shows some crinkling and minor reflections, implying it is either new and still in its protective packaging or has been re-sleeved. A price tag with '19.99' is partially visible in the upper left corner, attached to the plastic sleeve, suggesting a retail price. Given the depiction of multiple classic Doctors, this record likely features music or audio from the classic era of Doctor Who, possibly a themed compilation, soundtrack, or an audio drama. Picture discs are known for their visual appeal but can sometimes have slightly reduced sound quality compared to standard black vinyl, a factor often considered by collectors. The item appears to be in good, likely unused, condition given the protective sleeve, with no apparent scratches or damage to the playing surface visible through the plastic. The overall aesthetic points to a release from the late 1970s to early 1980s, coinciding with the eras of the Doctors depicted, or a later commemorative release celebrating these periods.