AI Appraisal Estimate

This item is a vintage Edison Record, specifically catalog number 80841-L. The record is a 78 RPM shellac disc, characterized by its distinctive black color and glossy finish. Shellac records are thicker and more brittle than modern vinyl, prone to breakage if mishandled, though this particular example appears intact from the visible portion. The central label is beige or light tan with a decorative black border featuring a checkerboard-like pattern. The predominant text on the label includes the prominent 'EDISON RECORD' logo, accompanied by a small portrait of a man, presumably Thomas Edison or a representative figure, to the right. Below the catalog number '80841-L', the title of the musical piece is clearly printed as 'A WALTZ IN THE MOONLIGHT AND YOU', credited to 'Mitchell Parish & Alfred Selman'. The performer is identified as 'FREDERICK KINSLEY ON THE MIGHER-LOSH PIPE ORGAN'. A smaller inscription 'A PRODUCT OF THE EDISON LABORATORIES' is visible on the left side of the label. An 'INDEX No.' field is present at the top. The bottom of the label displays the number '10444'. The record shows signs of use typical for its age, with some visible dust and possibly minor surface scratches that are common for shellac records and would affect playback quality, likely resulting in some surface noise. The label itself appears generally clean with minimal fading, though the contrast in the image makes it slightly difficult to discern finer details of wear. Given the 'Edison Record' branding and the shellac material, this record likely dates to the early to mid-20th century, probably from the 1920s or 1930s, aligning with the era of 78 RPM record production by Edison. The craftsmanship of the label is consistent with mass-produced records of that period, focusing on clear legibility and branding.

I have visually examined the provided image of this Edison Record, catalog number 80841-L, featuring 'A Waltz In The Moonlight And You' by Frederick Kinsley. This is a 78 RPM shellac disc, consistent with Edison's production in the early to mid-20th century, likely the 1920s or 1930s. The authenticity appears strong based on the well-known Edison label design, including the distinctive logo, portrait, and 'A Product of the Edison Laboratories' inscription. The catalog number and artist are clearly legible, reinforcing its identity. From the image, the record appears to be in 'Good' to 'Very Good' condition visually, considering its age. There is visible dust and potential minor surface scratches, which are common for shellac and will undoubtedly introduce surface noise during playback. The label is generally clean with good legibility, though minor fading or wear might be present that isn't fully discernible. The intact nature of the brittle shellac is a positive, as breakage is a common issue. Market demand for common Edison 78 RPM records, even by known artists, is generally modest unless it's an exceptionally rare title, a debut, or by a highly collectible performer. Frederick Kinsley, while a solid organist, doesn't command premium prices in the broader 78 RPM market. Rarity for this specific title by this artist on Edison is not exceptionally high. Comparables typically sell for between $5 to $25 depending on condition and seller. Factors impacting value negatively include the typical wear and potential surface noise. Positively, its intact nature and clear label add to its basic collectibility. Limitations: Without a physical inspection, I cannot ascertain the depth of scratches, warping, or micro-cracks which significantly impact playability and value. Playback testing would be essential to verify acoustic quality and assign a more precise grade. Provenance documentation is not applicable here as it is a mass-produced item. However, for authentication, physical examination of the shellac composition and specific label printing techniques would confirm authenticity, though the visual cues are very strong.