Capitol Records 78 RPM Record by Les Paul (not authenticated)

This item is a 10-inch shellac or vinyl 78 RPM phonograph record housed inside a vintage paper inner sleeve. The record features a prominent purple and silver-printed Capitol Records paper label centrally affixed to the black disc. The visible text on the label reads 'Capitol' in the iconic cursive script logo, along with track details stating 'YOU CAN'T EXPECT KISSES (FROM ME)' by Ruby Cowan and Les Paul, with Vocal Duet and Instrumental Accompaniment, catalog number 57-623. The physical characteristics display standard features of mid-20th-century shellac records, including a deep center groove label area and standard runout grooves. The paper sleeve exhibits mild aging, yellowing, and edge wear consistent with vintage storage, while the record itself appears generally clean with minor surface dust. The identification rests strictly on the visibly legible text and branding printed directly on the record label. This style of Capitol purple label is consistent with releases from the late 1940s to early 1950s era. The overall craftsmanship reflects mass-produced commercial audio media of the period. This item is unauthenticated and presented purely based on visible labeling.

Based on what I can see in the provided image, this item is a 10-inch 78 RPM phonograph record housed in a vintage paper sleeve, bearing a purple and silver Capitol Records label with text indicating 'YOU CAN'T EXPECT KISSES (FROM ME)' by Ruby Cowan and Les Paul, catalog number 57-623. The label and disc display characteristics typical of mid-20th-century commercial shellac pressings, with the paper sleeve showing mild aging and yellowing. However, I can't verify from a photo whether the record is free from internal hairline cracks, deep scratches, or warps that would significantly impair playability. Furthermore, I cannot verify the physical press quality, dead wax matrix numbers, or the exact paper stock of the sleeve without a hands-on assessment. The estimated value range of $15 to $35 reflects typical market behavior for 78 RPM records of this era featuring popular early artists, provided the condition of the playing surface is visually acceptable and playable. Demand for vintage shellac records is generally modest and niche, largely driven by genre collectors and mid-century enthusiasts. If physical inspection reveals heavy wear, deep groove damage, or if the item turns out to be a modern reproduction or replica rather than a vintage pressing, the value would drop significantly to a nominal decorative level of under $10. To fully evaluate the item, an in-person physical inspection by a media specialist would be needed to assess grading, runout stamps, and overall structural integrity.