Western Music Record Appraisal

Capitol Records 78 RPM 'The Noise Song' by Tex Ritter

This item is a 78 RPM phonograph record, typically made from shellac, featuring the song 'The Noise Song' performed by Tex Ritter. The record has a dark, likely black or very dark brown, opaque finish. The central label is purple with white or light-colored text and the distinctive Capitol Records logo, which includes a stylized domed building reminiscent of the U.S. Capitol. The label clearly states 'SIDE 1', 'THE NOISE SONG' (with songwriting credits 'Russ Goldberg-Ruth Cleary Patterson'), 'TEX RITTER', and the catalog number '32047'. A small, rectangular, partially detached white sticker with some handwritten or printed notes is affixed over a portion of the Capitol logo and 'SIDE 1' indicator, possibly indicating a previous owner's mark or inventory ID. The visible surface of the record shows significant signs of wear, including numerous superficial scratches and scuffs across the grooves. There is also a noticeable accumulation of dust or debris, particularly in the darker, non-reflective areas, suggesting a lack of recent cleaning. The condition indicates heavy use and handling over its lifetime, which is common for shellac 78 RPM records given their fragility. The manufacturing details from the label indicate it was probably produced by Capitol Records, Inc. in Hollywood, California. Based on the 78 RPM format and the recording artist, the estimated age of this record would likely be from the mid-20th century, specifically the late 1940s to early 1950s, a period when 78s were prevalent before the widespread adoption of LPs and 45s. The craftsmanship is typical for a mass-produced record of its era, focusing on functionality rather than elaborate artistic design, although the label design is iconic for Capitol Records.