Columbia 78 RPM shellac record, Say That We're Sweethearts Again (not authenticated)

This physical artifact is a vintage 78 RPM shellac phonograph record housed within a standard neutral-colored paper record sleeve, which appears consistent with mid-20th-century storage materials. The record itself is black shellac or a similar early composite material, featuring a prominent, round central paper label in vibrant red with white and black typography. The label prominently displays the Columbia brand logo and text. Specific visible text printed on the label includes 'COLUMBIA', the catalog number '37189', matrix number 'C119-2', and the track title 'SAY THAT WE'RE SWEETHEARTS AGAIN'. It further credits the performer as 'DOROTHY SHAY (THE PARK AVENUE HILLBILLY) SINGS', along with composer credit '-Brent-' and accompaniment details noting 'Vocal - Orchestra under the direction of Mischa Russell'. Additional rim text notes manufacturing details related to U.S. patents. The visible condition shows expected surface wear, minor dust, and slight aging of the paper sleeve with edge toning and corner creasing, consistent with vintage media storage. The attribution in the name rests directly on the legible typography printed on the central record label. The physical item and label appearance are characteristic of commercial recordings produced during the 1940s shellac era, though the item remains entirely unauthenticated.

Based on what I can see in the provided image, this is a vintage 10-inch 78 RPM shellac record on the Columbia label, featuring the track 'Say That We're Sweethearts Again' performed by Dorothy Shay, accompanied by an orchestra under the direction of Mischa Russell. The central red paper label displays the catalog number 37189 and matrix number C119-2. The item is housed in a standard neutral-colored paper sleeve showing edge toning and corner creasing consistent with age. I can't verify from a photo the internal audio condition, shellac density, or the exact pressing run, and would need physical inspection to confirm the playability and absence of deep scratches or hairline cracks. The estimated value range of $10 to $25 assumes the item matches the labeling and is in a playable, decent condition. Market demand for mid-century pop and novelty 78 RPM records by artists like Dorothy Shay is generally modest among collectors, as these commercial mass-market recordings were produced in significant quantities and are typically readily available. Should physical inspection reveal that the item is a modern reproduction, a contemporary replica, or in heavily damaged condition with deep groove wear, the market value would drop to near zero or nominal decorative value. To fully evaluate and understand the piece, an in-person expert appraisal, physical assessment of the grooves, and verification of the pressing plates would be required.