AI Appraisal Estimate

This is a 12-inch long-playing (LP) vinyl record of Black Sabbath's fourth studio album, 'Vol. 4'. This specific copy is a United States pressing on the Warner Bros. Records label, identifiable by the distinctive 'Burbank' palm tree label design which was commonly used by the label from the early to mid-1970s. The label is an olive/tan shade featuring the 'WB' shield logo at the 12 o'clock position. The catalog number 'BS 2602' is visible on the left side of the spindle hole. Side 2 tracklist includes 'Snowblind', 'Cornucopia', 'Laguna Sunrise', 'St. Vitus Dance', and 'Under The Sun'. The vinyl itself appears to be standard black wax with a visible gloss, though some light surface scuffing and fingerprints are present under the light, which may indicate a 'Very Good' (VG) or 'Very Good Plus' (VG+) condition relative to Goldmine standards. The center hole shows minimal wear, suggesting it has not been overplayed. The manufacturing rim text at the bottom confirms 'Warner Bros. Records Inc.' and 'Made in U.S.A.' Given the palm tree label style, this press likely dates between 1973 and 1978, as the original 1972 release would have featured the 'Green Label' design.

Based on my examination of the high-resolution images provided, I am identifying this as a US reissue of Black Sabbath’s 'Vol. 4' on Warner Bros. Records. The 'Burbank' palm tree label and the catalog number BS 2602 confirm this is not the 1972 first pressing (which features the olive green label), but rather a mid-1970s repress. Authenticity appears consistent with period-correct manufacturing, though a physical inspection of the deadwax matrix etchings would be required to identify the specific pressing plant and exact year of production. The vinyl presents with visible gloss, but the presence of scuffing and fingerprints suggests a Goldmine grade of Very Good (VG) to Very Good Plus (VG+). The absence of significant spindle wear is a positive indicator of moderate use. Market demand for Black Sabbath remains exceptionally high among collectors; however, as this is a later 1970s reissue rather than an original 'Greenie' or a rare UK Vertigo swirl, its value is dictated by playability rather than extreme scarcity. Comparable sales for mid-70s Burbank labels in this condition typically range from $40 to $65. Factors that could elevate this value include the presence of the original photo booklet (often missing or detached) and a pristine outer sleeve. Limitations: This appraisal is based on visual data only. A definitive valuation would require a physical play-test to check for surface noise or skips not visible to the eye. Furthermore, verifying the presence of the 'Artisan' logo in the runout grooves would confirm if this was mastered from the original tapes, which impacts desirability for audiophile collectors.