Beatles LP "INTRODUCING THE BEATLES" Real Version 1 STEREO Title Back - Vee Jay

$

1,750

    PLACE YOUR BID!
    The owner MUST SELL due to serious medical issues. So     here's your chance to own one of the RAREST pieces of      BEATLES recording history! It's highly doubtful that you     will ever see another one of these in your lifetime!
    Try finding an AUTHENTIC copy of this LP anywhere in today's       vinyl market. Good Luck in locating one! 
    DON'T MISS THIS RARE OPPORTUNITY!
     Anyone familiar with this RARE LP knows the asking price here is well BELOW            MARKET VALUE, a clear sign to all that the owner is serious about selling at a       price well within anyone's financial reach. If you're a legitimate BEATLE VINYL       COLLECTOR you'll give this serious consideration!            Beatles LP: "INTRODUCING ... THE BEATLES"        VERSION 1 "STEREO"  COLUMN BACK" / "TITLES ON BACK"      by Vee Jay Records issued on January 10, 1964.  1ST Pressing;  # VJLPS 1062 on      label; # SR 1062 on outer jacket. Pressed by MONARCH Records in Los Angeles,      CA. A RARE collectible now 52+ YEARS OLD. 100% AUTHENTIC - NOT a common      FAKE! The outer jacket passes the 100% CONCLUSIVE "HONEY" Test (which NO      FAKE HAS EVER PASSED) making this LP cover & Disc unquestionably authentic.      (Check out all the photos posted).                WEST COAST OUTER JACKET:  (ACCOUNTS FOR 75% of TOTAL VALUE)       Features the 100% CONCLUSIVE "HONEY" TEST, one that  NO FAKE HAS EVER PASSED.  Collectors know that in buying        items like this,  while authentic STEREO discs must pass tests of their own, and have individual value, much of the value of the        entire piece is in this extremely RARE JACKET (SOME EDGE WEAR; SEE PHOTOS).   As for specifics,  the "SPINE" is intact,        there is a small 3/4" SPLIT at the top & bottom by the opening, but NO WRITING. Seams are intact. MILD WEAR on the lower        front is present by PAUL but this is quite typical of these jackets.  Overall it is still quite clean! Construction is consistent with the       rigid heavy material used on all known original jackets.  Knowledgeable collectors are aware that AUTHENTIC versions of this       jacket are nearly IMPOSSIBLE to find in any condition! Unfortunately, there is no actual statistic that would tell us how many of        these jackets were ever constructed, but certainly far fewer than "AD BACKS" or "BLANK BACKS". On all FAKES it's the back        cover that will tell you all that you need to know with respect to authenticity as long as you know what to look for. If these jackets        weren't already considered rare enough, WEST COAST versions like this one are even rarer. The owner had obtained this album       as is from someone in the San Francisco area many years ago. (If you are looking for additional details, please feel free        to ask or request additional photos).
      What is the difference between an EAST COAST and a WEST COAST version?  (SEE SECTIONS BELOW in "SOME        INTERESTING & IMPORTANT FACTS" in SECTION 8 (Test #3) and SECTION 14).  
         ALSO OF NOTE:  Some collectors have written in asking if this cover requires the presence of the phrase "Printed in USA"           on the lower left side, however it does not. This phrase only appears on ALL "AD BACKS" and only some "BLANK BACKS".           There's never been any evidence suggesting that this phrase has EVER appeared on "VERSION 1 COLUMN BACKS"  since              Vee Jay was forced to switch printers in 1963 from COBURN to IVY HILL, who never included this phrase. (SEE  PHOTO)           SEE SECTIONS 8; TEST #3 & SECTION 14  listed below for additional information. 
    FIRST VINYL PRESSING:  (ACCOUNTS FOR 25% of TOTAL VALUE)        VINYL features light swirling surface scratches on both sides with typical paper slides and scuffs.  There's no deep scratches        or serious issues to the naked eye from what we can see.  Remember that if in NM condition, this very RARE DISC & COVER        combo would fetch between $25,000 & $35,000 (and MAYBE MORE).  OVAL label lists LEFT JUSTIFIED SONG TITLES;           # "VJLPS 1062" is at 9:00;  words "LONG PLAYING" and "MICROGROOVE" do not appear on this label version. Label's        color band is clean, defined featuring the required presence of the color "GREEN".  This DISC was pressed by MONARCH        RECORDS. Label features UPPER CASE type style. "THE BEATLES"  is located above the spindle hole.  To knowledgeable        collectors this is a definitive visible feature of authenticity.  All correct trail off marks are present.  Notably the COVER bears        most of the value in this rare pairing of cover and disc. These VERSION 1 STEREO DISCS are RARE in their own right since        ONLY a TOTAL of 2,202 STEREO VERSION 1s WERE EVER PRESSED including all of those paired with either AD BACK        or BLANK BACK jackets. In an industry where typical pressings were likely to have been in the many hundreds of thousands,        2,202 is considered to be a mere sampling and no doubt a direct result of all of the legal entanglements that Vee Jay had to        endure not to mention all of their monetary problems in 1964. (If you're looking for additional details, please feel free        to ask or request additional photos)
     This item comes with original WHITE  Vee Jay INNER SLEEVE (See Photos) which        illustrates 25 other Vee Jay LPs and is the same pictorial used for all  "AD BACKS".
       SPECIAL NOTE:  As expected with any RARE "BEATLE"  collectible, there will always be those who question authenticity, since         admittedly there are so many FAKES out there. This applies to any RARE item. We welcome any comments but ask anyone who         chooses to do so, at least provide us a detailed explanation of any facts that you feel support your position. Otherwise, we ask that         you please review the photos posted and read the complete description provided.         (These comments apply to any RARE collectible).           CATEGORY:  Very RARE "Collectible" to be purchased as is and as described.
      (VERSION 1 STEREO discs were pressed for Vee Jay by only (2) companies. They were AMERICAN RECORD PRESSING         Co. (ARP) & MONARCH RECORD MFG Co. (MR). Another firm, SOUTHERN PLASTICS Inc. (SP) is rumored to also have         been used, however there is NO evidence that any STEREO pressings have EVER been discovered from them - only MONO).
       As of 3-7-16, an authentic VARIATION of this album was posted on ebay. We were excited to see this because it validated what         we've been saying all along, that the STEREO VERSION 1 "COLUMN BACK" actually does exist. But how many were actually         made? No one really knows. Based upon industry experts, existing Vee Jay stats and market estimates, indications are that no         more than 300 were ever assembled and paired with an authentic STEREO record.              It's hard to believe how many FAKES of this LP continue to appear on ebay! Buying a FAKE is a waste of anyone's time and hard         earned money. This is incredibly frustrating to buyers searching for authentic variations of this great album. Sellers who offer only         AUTHENTIC items are also very annoyed that they are continually forced to compete in a market that remains full of FAKE material.         This problem is now finally being addressed by ebay! Soon it may be impossible to even list a FAKE! 
    TO THE UNSUSPECTING BUYER:  BEWARE of FAKES!  Before you buy any version of this great LP, be sure you understand all         the differences between FAKES and REAL ones. We say this not to insult anyone but simply to state that it is a well known fact that         buyers are often easily fooled. BUY ONLY FROM EXPERTS!  So if you ever have questions about how to identify a FAKE, please         contact us anytime.  As one of the World's foremost authorities on Vee Jay Records and the company itself, we would be proud to         be your source for any AUTHENTIC "BEATLES" vinyl pressings, especially those on the Vee Jay label.
     WE NEVER SELL FAKES, so BUY WITH CONFIDENCE!  It's always been our policy to never knowingly sell anything other than        originally produced collectibles. So, if you are looking for any AUTHENTIC version of this LP or a source for authentic BEATLES         Vinyl Records or CDs, then shop here at THE ELECTRIC STORE, USA.
      THE "REAL THING"!       Anytime these listings appear, most onlookers state "OH NO, NOT ANOTHER BOOTLEG!". This is a typical reaction and always         expected. But unfortunately it happens too often because many buyers do not take the time to read the description or have not kept         up with current facts on how to really tell the difference between a FAKE and the REAL THING. So take a minute and read all the         info that pertains to this RARE item thoroughly and in addition, view all photos posted (If you require additional photos, we         will be happy to provide them). Once you have done so, and as long as you have learned "HOW TO SPOT A FAKE", you will         undoubtedly realize that what you're looking at, is THE REAL THING!  In MINT condition this album would certainly command a         market price of at least $25,000.00 to $35,000.00, however finding this LP in ANY CONDITION is hard enough. Finding one         in MINT condition may very likely be impossible. 
      A LITTLE HISTORY ABOUT THIS ALBUM ...       We can tell you that the owner of this LP had a relative who was employed by Vee Jay in the 1950s and 1960s and he was already         a record collector in his own right. Working there gave him daily insight with respect to every aspect of their operation including         inner office memorandums, production stats, memos, documents and communications pertaining to contacts with vendors and         much more. As a collector, he was aware of the potential value of these records (mainly by speculation since THE BEATLES had         not yet reached the peak of their ultimate fame), so he habitually stockpiled all variations of their records, sleeves and other items         whenever an opportunity presented itself. This included PROMOS, METAL MASTERS, MOTHERS, STAMPERS and much more.         Items he had obtained directly from Vee Jay were obviously brand new, but its not to say that his collection never included some         pre-owned records he came across.  As an example, this LP is obviously NOT brand new, so when he obtained it as a collector, it         can only be assumed that he either traded for it or bought it outright from someone who had obviously already played it. Let's just         say that in one way or another, he obtained it during his tenure on the west coast, long before any FAKES appeared in the market,        and not to mention long before characteristic differences with official copies which had yet to be discovered. Since he was aware         that this particular variation was produced in very limited quantities, needles to say it turned out to be a very wise move financially,         which at that time was comparatively very inexpensive. 
       However, during the early portion of January 1964, you must understand what the mindset was back then. Production numbers         were never available to the public back then, so actually no one had any idea of what the value of an LP like this would ultimately         become. And when VERSION 1s were released in January 1964, no one could have predicted that shortly after that, because of         Vee Jay's legal entanglements, VERSION 2 would be released. That variation alone is the major reason as to why VERSION 1s         are now considered to be so valuable, especially in STEREO and especially coupled with this COLUMN BACK jacket.
                REASONABLE OFFERS are always considered by SERIOUS KNOWLEDGEABLE BUYERS! Sorry NO RETURNS or                  REFUNDS due to the fact that when we previously allowed returns, specifically with respect to other hi-end items, many                  buyers often abused the privilege. Our attitude about this is very clear:  "IF A BUYER CAN NOT TELL WHAT THEY'RE                  BUYING FROM OUR DESCRIPTION OR DETAILED PHOTOGRAPHS, WE RECOMMEND THAT THEY PROBABLY                 SHOULD'NT ATTEMPT TO BUY IT". (This refers mainly to questions relating to authenticity and not necessarily to it's                 it's condition).         Please read the entire auction for the complete description before you buy.
      FAKE or REAL? We've experienced the expected comments about this LP from many potential buyers as to whether it's         actually an AUTHENTIC LP & COVER. Here is your opportunity to comment. If you feel this item is not authentic, we         certainly would like to hear specific details as to why you'd feel that way! This cover is so incredibly RARE that negative         remarks are always to be expected! Do not be afraid to state your case. We won't be offended in in any way. Chances are         we've probably heard it already so please state whatever you like. Our knowledge of Vee Jay specifically this ALBUM,         gives us 100% confidence regarding its AUTHENTICITY. So, we can't wait to hear from you!
            RECENT COMMENTS HAVE BEEN MADE ...        Someone recently stated that he "knew for a fact" that there are actually only 15 to 20 known copies of this record and        cover pairing, and also that he even knew who these owners were. This is one of the most insane comments we have heard.        Our initial reaction was: "Who is it that knows there are exactly 15 to 20 of these in existence, and how would anyone even         have such info? With that said, we must ask,"If someone knows who these 15 to 20 people are, what are their names and         why haven't they ever come forward to be identified? How can anyone assume that there aren't more people out there who         own this LP?". Is someone actually tracking their existence daily? It's highly doubtful that this info would be correct. 
       A more sensible comment may have been that "THEY HAPPEN TO KNOW 15 TO 20 PEOPLE WHO OWN A COPY OF         THIS LP". The history of VERSION 1 STEREOS (including all "AD BACKS", "BLANK BACKS" & "COLUMN BACKS")         is well documented. COLUMN BACK FAKES IN PARTICULAR began to appear by the thousands in the late 1960s and         through the 1970s. And actually so many began flooding the vinyl market, it caused the so-called experts to re-think the        possibly that there may never had been any legitimate covers made in the first place; that is until some started appearing         in the 90s. It was then evident to experts, that Vee Jay must have had at least a minimal production run of these covers.         After all, as crazy as Vee Jay was being run, NO RECORD COMPANY in their right mind would have ever set up such a         small production run of only 15 to 20 pieces. The set-up costs alone would have been too costly and impractical. Where         did these officially released LPs go? There is a theory that has been floating around for many years, which seems to be a        quite logical one that we happen to agree with and IT GOES LIKE THIS!  When the market was first flooded with WHAT         WE DO NOW KNOW were FAKE copies, REAL ones were also out there as well, mixed in with mainstream record sales.         However there wasn't yet any available information to inform collectors and the unsuspecting public, of FAKES and how         to identify them.  Not to mention, who would have even been looking?  It is a well known fact that in 1964, Vee Jay was         desperate for cash, so it was logical to assume that they would have undoubtedly attempted to release as many records as         they could have until the courts put a stop to their antics. Some FAKES were made so well that unless you had all of the         facts on what to look for (none of which were available at that time) you would have had a hard time identifying one. Official           Vee Jay statistics do show that only 2,202 VERSION 1 STEREOS were ever pressed. As previously stated, that included         all "AD BACKS", as well as "BLANK BACKS" and "COLUMN BACKS". So it is logical to assume that at least a small         portion of their overall production run must have included the pairing of STEREO discs with several "COLUMN BACK         COVERS". Unfortunately no one has any "OFFICIAL" data on precisely how many discs were paired with this cover, and         we will probably never know. But what we are sure of is that it was certainly more than 15 to 20. (This is more than just a         theory with facts based upon actual production figures). 
       An educated guess would be that the number made was probably closer to 300, however no one really knows for sure.         Certainly no one could possibly have an exact count of what's still out there in today's market, because that kind of data         doesn't exist (but it's no doubt more than 15 to 20). It is our guess that some of the self appointed experts who are        living obviously in fantasy land, are compelled to fabricate info they would like people to believe. They apparently have         some kind of magic crystal ball that they depend upon for information, while the rest of us deal with facts. But back on         planet earth where realistic ideas predominate, this rare COVER is still one of, if not THE rarest BEATLES LP/COVER         in existence. It's been stated by many experts that there is no doubt that it is even rarer than the CAPITOL 1966 FIRST        STATE BUTCHER COVER and much more valuable in NM condition. 
     (NOTE:  A collector wrote in stating that the disc that appears in this auction, would not have necessarily been the disc         that may have originally been paired with this cover. As we have stated on several occasions, official statistics indicate         that either the MONARCH pressing (which this one is) or the ARP  pressing could have originally been paired with         this cover. We do know that NO STEREO VERSION 1 PRESSING from SOUTHERN PLASTICS has ever turned up,         therefore we can eliminate this variation for now. The pairing of discs with covers was never an exact science for Vee            Jay, therefore THE RULE ON THIS IS THAT THERE IS NO RULE AND NEVER HAS BEEN).
       ALSO:  For over 50 YEARS our reputation worldwide regarding the authentication of records by THE BEATLES has         never been questioned. Our descriptions are detailed. Our photos clearly illustrate the item's characteristics! If there is         any doubt, feel free to ask as many questions as necessary or request additional photos. Any so-called "EXPERT" who        is worth their salt, would certainly be able to identify an authentic item from a FAKE from any detailed photo. As stated         above, IF YOU CANNOT TELL FROM THE PHOTOS WHAT IT IS YOU'RE ARE LOOKING AT, THEN WE MUST        QUESTION YOUR KNOWLEDGE AND/OR EXPERTISE.       Unfortunately, this RARE LP has had the misfortune of having to compete over the past few decades, with thousands of         FAKES due to the fact that it's always been known to have been the most FAKED or BOOTLEGGED LP in history! Even         though the record has been FAKED often, it's much easier to spot than a FAKED COVER, as long as you know what to         look for. It's really the COVER that you need to pay special attention to. When found to be REAL like this, it is always an         incredible find and it is where 75 TO 80% OF THE VALUE OF THE PIECE lies. Even though this cover PASSES all the         known authenticity tests, there's one particular test that does it, and it has always been known to be the most convincing         test of all, known as the HONEY Test. This specific test is 100% CONCLUSIVE, in that NO FAKE HAS EVER PASSED         IT. If you're not familiar with this test you need to read the section ("SOME INTERESTING AND IMPORTANT FACTS"),         in particular Point #8 and Test #2. 
       NO KNOWLEDGEABLE COLLECTOR WOULD DISAGREE WITH THESE FINDINGS AND WOULD STATE THAT         THIS IS INDEED ONE OF THE GREAT FINDS ON EBAY FOR ANY SERIOUS BEATLE  FAN!         Once again we point out that this COVER PASSES ALL THE KNOWN TESTS verifying it's authenticity,         including the following:              1.)  The 100% CONCLUSIVE "HONEY" TEST (WHICH NO FAKE HAS EVER PASSED)         2.)  The "MISERY INK BUMP" TEST (a feature on ALL FAKES)        3.)  The "B in BEATLES" TEST (a feature on ALL FAKES)        4.)  The "FLAP" TEST (See POINT #14 below)        5.)  The "GEORGE HARRISON SHADOW" TEST (See below in POINT #8; TEST #1)        6.)  The "GLOSS" TEST (See below in POINT #8; TEST #10)
      ... and much more. And let's not forget about the RECORD. It too passes all the tests that define it's authenticity.         (Read Sections 1 thru 14 listed below).
      If you're not familiar with these tests, please read the sections listed below as ...      "SOME INTERESTING & IMPORTANT FACTS". (SEE ALL PHOTOS POSTED). 
    THANKS "BEATLE"collectors for writing in to let us know how you feel about this listing. It's always comforting to hear from all        knowledgeable people who understand the true significance of discovering such an LP and the importance it has in the collector's        market. It's also nice to see that there are those who have taken the time to view all the photos that we have posted and have read        our detailed description, agreeing that there's NO DOUBT that it this is a LEGITIMATE 1-10-64 RELEASE from"VEE JAY RECORDS" and not        a common fake, so often found in the today's marketplace. We've also had to field many questions and comments from those who        obviously don't have all of the facts, but have chosen to be very sarcastic. That's OK because it often indicates the general feeling        out there, that it's hard to believe that these records/covers really exist. AND YET HERE IT IS! But if you do have doubts, we want you       to please come forward and give us any specifics that you may want to point out.
      WE ACKNOWLEDGE THE FOLLOWING FOR THEIR POSITIVE COMMENTS ABOUT THIS RARE LP:  Mr. Robert Vella of        Spokane, WA, Dr. Andre LaForce of Montreal, ON, Mr. Dave Jakes of Pittsburgh, PA, Ms. Diana Remond of Syracuse, NY, Mr. Tim       O'Neal of Buffalo, NY, Mr. Kenneth Mann of London, England, Mr. Richard Tuell of Atlanta, GA, Mr. B. Goldsmith of NYC, NY, Mrs.        Rebecca Springer of Gary, Indiana and Mr. Harve Letell of Denver, CO., Mr. Bruce Wegman of Syracuse, NY, Ms. Mary DeLong of        Pittsburg, PA, Ms. Donna Seleste of NYC, Mr. Paul Harden of Boston, MA, Mr. Peter Dent of Akron, OH., Mr. Carl DeWitt of Salt        Lake City, UT, Mr. Rick Pearson of Ottawa, ONT, Mr. Frank DeChristofaro of Boston, MA, Mr. Tarpen, Ghadia of Toronto, ONT, Mr.        Carlo LoPresti of Cleveland, OH, Ms. Katrina Otto of Waltham, MA. 
     We appreciate your positive endorsement and your enthusiasm! The more the merrier!
      WE ALSO WELCOME ALL SKEPTICS, SINCE WE ARE CERTAIN THAT THERE ARE MANY AND FOR GOOD REASON.        For any reason, if you feel that what you're viewing here is NOT an AUTHENTIC copy, we need to hear from you. Any comments         along with SPECIFIC REASONS as to why you may feel that this is not AUTHENTIC are immensely important to us and always        greatly appreciated! We feel that the description and historical information presented herein is not only accurate, but is also based        upon known documentation and also 1st hand knowledge. All the photos we've posted are true representations of all the details of        this VINYL RECORD, COVER and INNER SLEEVE. We would've provided more images, but according to ebay rules, we posted        a maximum of 12. More photos are available upon request. THANK YOU VERY MUCH FOR WATCHING! PLEASE LET US        HEAR FROM YOU!
    According to most experts, this is ONE of only a small number of these left in existence! So, don't be fooled by any listings that        claim to be an "ORIGINAL" copy of this LP. There's a 100% chance that it will turn out to be a "FAKE"! When we listed this LP,        as far as we knew then, it was known to be the "ONLY" REAL VERSION 1 STEREO "COLUMN BACK" on ebay. In checking        throughout ebay  since then, nothing has changed. There are nothing but "FAKES". 
      Based upon examination of this album, there is absolutely no reason to believe that it is anything but AUTHENTIC! (If anyone has        any questions, please come forward. We welcome all inquiries or comments!). (Please read Sections 6, 8, 9, & 14 listed below).
   JUST OUR OPINION ...       In order to be classified as a legitimate buyer of such a RARE and UNIQUE item, we need to point out that one should have the       knowledge necessary to tell the difference between a FAKE and AUTHENTIC copy. Most people sadly, are unfortunately easily        fooled and when they spot what is actually a FAKE in great condition at an affordable low price, they jump at the chance to buy       it and most certainly at a higher price than it is worth, thinking that what they've found is a rare collectible. In fact, they shouldn't        have paid any more than $3.00. As long time professional sellers of AUTHENTIC "BEATLES" records, we're annoyed that we       are constantly forced to compete with these obvious forgeries that we see on ebay  all the time. In fact, we are confident that it's       very unlikely that you'll ever see another REAL one of these like this in your lifetime again due to the fact that they are so scarce!       Our guess is that those who have had the good fortune of obtaining one of these, are probably hanging on to it. They realize it's       tremendous value along with it's rarity. Here, the owner of this particular collectible has decided that after 50 PLUS YEARS, it's       time to turn items like this into much needed cash.
      NOTE: The "OVAL" Vee Jay  LOGO was the predominant label variation for VERSION 1. Once in a while a [VJ] BRACKETS        label version has been spotted for a VERSION 1 but not often since it was most common on VERSION 2.
      When the "AD BACK" & "BLANK BACK" experiments were over, Vee Jay  then decided to print song titles on the back panel        of the outer jacket. Although this is a 1st PRESSING the "COLUMN BACK COVER" was the 3rd & RAREST COVER for the       VERSION 1 issued in STEREO, with "LOVE ME DO" & "P.S. I LOVE YOU" not "PLEASE PLEASE ME" & "ASK ME WHY"        found later on all VERSION 2 copies. Even though these tracks were recorded in 1963 in the UK for the "PLEASE, PLEASE        ME" LP  on PARLOPHONE, NO COPY of "INTRODUCING ... THE BEATLES" was ever released in 1963 regardless of what        you may have read or heard. In any event, very shortly after being hit with a lawsuit with CAPITOL Records (actually it was with        ARDMORE & BEECHWOOD MUSIC), the LP tanked due to CAPITOL'S superior marketing of million sellers such as "MEET        THE BEATLES" & "THE EARLY BEATLES". 
      Average fans were never made aware of the fact that there were 2 VERSIONS of this LP  and  how  rare  the  first ones were.  In fact,        Vee Jay was quite secretive during transition from VERSION 1 to VERSION 2. When they were forced to cease the distribution        of all BEATLES material as of JANUARY 16, 1964 , specifically with VERSION 1s, they had an idea on how to get around this.        So when they resumed production in early FEBRUARY OF 1964 and came out with VERSION 2 replacing the 2 songs "LOVE        DO"  and "P.S. I  LOVE YOU" with "PLEASE PLEASE ME" and "ASK ME WHY" (the 2 songs they knew they would be allowed        to use), this was their opportunity to create a new cover since the original ones were considered to be dull and boring, especially        lacking any liner notes. But they were not about to attract any more attention than necessary, so  the new  covers were identical to        the design of the originals with the only exception being the changes in the 2 song titles listed. Another reason to keep  the cover        design the  same was that in the  midst of their legal issues, this allowed  them to inject originally made VERSION 1 LPs   into the        overall unsuspecting marketplace along with the new VERSION 2 LPs without attracting any unwanted attention. Financially it        turned out to be a wise move that had to happen, since they were quite strapped for cash and it solved the problem of what to do        with the last of the remaining VERSION 1s.
      Less VERSION 1s were ever made than VERSION 2s.  In  the 1st  quarter of  1964,  VERSION 2  (both MONOS & STEREOS)        were pressed  in  much  greater  numbers  making it very  clear why  an y  VERSION 1  has  become so  valuable and  quite  a find in  any        condition.  Needless  to  say,  these LPs are  highly sought after  by all  serious  collectors.  It's  also very  important  to point out that         Vee Jay NEVER  RE-ISSUED  this album. So anytime you see someone selling is a "RE-ISSUE", it is undoubtedly a FAKE.
     WE HAVE ADDED ADDITIONAL PHOTOS FOR ALL POTENTIAL BUYERS TO VIEW. 
     (Our catalog # ITB -V1-COLBACK-19644)
      ATTENTION!  Knowledgeable BEATLES  collectors are aware that this was the most FAKED "COVER" of all time. VERSION 1        of INTRODUCING ... THE BEATLES was 1st issued officially on JANUARY 10, 1964 in 3 DIFFERENT COVER VARIATIONS.        By the time this cover was released with all song titles listed on the back, the writing was already on the wall for Vee Jay. In short,         their legal battles brought about panic to the entire company with the release of their next desperate act, commonly referred to as a       VERSION 2. In typical fashion, Vee Jay  then decided to rush all remaining BEATLES  products out the door by whatever means        necessary including using whatever leftover materials remained in stock, including labels, cardboard jackets, inner sleeves etc. and       right up until their legal deadlines which expired on OCTOBER 15, 1964. As stated herein, contrary to popular belief this LP was        NEVER released in 1963 (IN ANY VERSION). In fact, most fans never even knew there was more than one VERSION of this LP        and needless to say, no one had any idea that in years to come, how scarce or valuable any VERSION 1 would ever become, and        IN ANY CONDITION! (ESPECIALLY in STEREO). So here is your chance to own an incredible piece of BEATLES  history!  ______________________________________________________________________________________________________       All BEATLES  pricing is reflective of the latest BEATLES PRICE GUIDES  in particular the most recently guides published by          BEATLES experts. In addition, our pricing is based on condition, rarity, and scarcity. There are other several BEATLES PRICE        GUIDES  available, however keep in mind that many guides are now several years old and don't reflect accurate or current market        values, regardless of who the authors are or whatever their so-called "expertise" might be. Please feel free to ask any questions or        request additional photos!  ______________________________________________________________________________________________________    SOME INTERESTING & IMPORTANT FACTS about ...    "INTRODUCING ... THE BEATLES" (compiled by our expert staff).      What is a FAKE & what is a REAL copy?
    1.) First & foremost, real copies of any version of this LP must have "INTRODUCING ... THE BEATLES" & "THE BEATLES",      ABOVE THE SPINDLE HOLE  on the record label. If either phrase is below the hole, it is FAKE!  No exceptions.
    2.) Keep in mind; there were only (2) official versions of this LP; VERSION 1 & VERSION 2; and never any re-issues made      by Vee Jay. Therefore wherever you see the term: "RE-ISSUE", it's a FAKE.
    3.) VERSION 1; Included: "AD BACK", "BLANK BACK" & "COLUMN or TITLES ON BACK" variations. All confirmed "AD      BACK" covers have "PRINTED IN USA" on the front cover printed vertically in the lower left corner. If this is missing, the "AD      BACK" slick was undoubtedly removed from another Vee Jay LP and pasted to the back of a less valuable later version. This      always leaves tell-tale wrinkles on the border of the slick. Also, contrary to popular belief, and although all songs present were      originally recorded in the UK in 1963 for the original LP "PLEASE, PLEASE ME" on PARLOPHONE, NO COPY OF THIS      LP WAS EVER RELEASED IN 1963. It is a known fact that the first copies of "INTRODUCING … THE BEATLES" were all     officially released by Vee Jay Records, on Friday January 10, 1964. 
    4.) The 1st VERSION 1 COVER (outer jacket) prepared was called the "AD BACK", VJ 1062 (1) MCI. The back of this jacket      featured color images of 25 Vee Jay albums. The Front cover has the words "PRINTED IN USA" in the lower left side printed      vertically. All VERSION 1 records have a significantly higher value but the outer jacket is really what makes it a significant find. 
    5.) The 2nd VERSION 1 COVER for this LP was known as the "BLANK BACK" featuring a 100% BLANK BACK of the outer      jacket with a semi-gloss all white paper slick pasted there. Some covers (MC2A) do have "PRINTED IN USA" on the front like the      "AD BACK" while others (MC2B) do not. Once again it is the cover that makes the overall piece much more valuable. 
    6.)  The 3rd VERSION 1 COVER was known as the "COLUMN BACK" or the "TITLES ON BACK" cover. It listed song titles on      the back in (2) columns. This variation (MONO or STEREO) came predominantly with the "Oval" logo label or Black/Rainbow      with Vee Jay in typical "Brackets" [VJ] (RARELY). Legit STEREOS  of this variation are all very rare, always keeping in mind      that there have been hundreds of thousands of FAKES that have tried to mimic this cover. FAKE covers are found with discs, and     are undoubtedly counterfeit, and "THE BEATLES" always appears below the spindle hole. And if the VINYL is FAKE then     the cover is too.  LABELS  – 1ST label for VERSION 1 run was the Black Rainbow label with the "Oval" logo. Vinyls included      the songs "P.S. I LOVE YOU"  and "LOVE ME DO"  replaced later on VERSION 2 pressings with "PLEASE, PLEASE ME"  and      "ASK ME WHY". The VERSION 2s were not released until early FEBRUARY of 1964. There are Three (3) font variations with      "Oval" labels for this version. MR1A states words "LONG PLAYING" and "MICROGROOVE" in upper & lower case font, while      MR1B doesn't mention them, and MR1C has these words, but only in upper case font. (A few of VERSION 1s have been found      with the "BRACKETS" [VJ] logo on the label). 
    7.) VERSION 2 – All official versions must have all words "INTRODUCING … THE BEATLES" and "THE BEATLES" above the      spindle hole. If either is below, it is always be a FAKE. The VERSION 2 featured song titles "PLEASE, PLEASE ME"  and "ASK      ME WHY"  replacing "P.S. I LOVE YOU" and "LOVE ME DO"  found only on VERSION 1 copies. VERSION 2 was released in      early FEBRUARY 1964. The labels varied with either the Black Rainbow "Oval" logo, or the Black Rainbow "BRACKETS"       [VJ] logo, or the Black Background with SILVER "VJ" logo, or a Black Background with SILVER "Oval" logo, or the rare      Black Background or SILVER "VJ" in Block Style print, or Black Background with the SILVER "BRACKETS" logo [VJ]      (very rare). In rare cases, some VERSION 2 records can also be found with a 45 rpm label as well (Black Rainbow with "Oval"      logo). There are also some FAKES that feature a Medium Sized SILVER BRACKETS [VJ] LOGO printed on an all Black label      (Real ones have a much smaller logo). All VERSION 2 covers are "Column Back / Titles on Back". No copy of any of the      STEREO VERSION 2 discs with a regular sized Rainbow label and the "Oval" logo are known to exist. Although back in 1964      at Vee Jay, anything would have been possible.
    8.) SOME IMPORTANT TESTS FOR AUTHENTICITY:       TEST #1 – An obvious visual test is the "SHADOW" test. It was originally assumed that when George Harrison's "SHADOW"      appeared on the right side of the front of the album cover, that this was a definitive sign of authenticity. It was later discovered that      some elaborate FAKES also had this feature, therefore, although his shadow must be there, its appearance alone does not define      the LP as being authentic.       TEST #2 – A 100% CONCLUSIVE test is the "HONEY" test. This refers to the back of the jacket and song title "A TASTE OF      HONEY". On ALL FAKES, in letters "H" and "E", the top left corners of the letters are not solidly printed with black ink missing      there. This is THE  most definitive test recognizing authenticity. All FAKE covers (especially back panel) are poorly photo copied      examples of original VERSION 1 COLUMN BACKS, but due to their poor quality, they're subject to many subtle inconsistencies      which can be spotted by any trained eye, and of course the "HONEY" test illustrates one of these errors. Also, in reference to the      back of the outer jacket, there are other "INK" tests however most have not been confirmed to be 100% CONCLUSIVE, but NO      FAKE HAS EVER PASSED THIS TEST.       TEST #3 – The "FLAP TEST" requires inspection of the inside of the jacket's opening. In publications dedicated to pointing out      differences between authentic & fake records and covers, it's stated and documented that specific authentic covers were found to      have had NO FLAPS at all. Originally, "NO FLAPS" referred to ALL FAKES. But since that time, with the revelation of recently     discovered WEST COAST releases, obviously that thinking has now gone out the window. Previously, the conventional thinking      was that all authentic covers must have 1/4" flaps at their inner top and bottom, and that those with NO FLAPS had to be FAKE.      But in the 1990s some VERSION 1 (Titles On Back) covers were discovered on the WEST COAST with NO FLAPS AT ALL     but they passed every other test relating to authenticity. How can that be? Remember that Vee Jay had hired more than one firm      with respect to the make-up and printing of these jackets (i.e.  Coburn & Ivy Hill). So, naturally there would have to have been      subtle differences in how both of these vendors independently produced a finished product. What we've stated here was always      suspected, and in the 1990s it was confirmed. Realists have always suspected that there could never have been only one or two     legitimate covers produced as a sample of any production run with NO FLAPS and statistics have revealed that around 79,000      MONO & ONLY 2,202 STEREO VERSION 1 albums were ever produced, which included all AD BACKS, BLANK BACKS &      COLUMN BACKS (or "Titles On Back"). When one considers the way that Vee Jay was being run in 1964, nothing would be      surprising. With legal issues hanging over their heads in 1964, as confirmed by eye witnesses who worked at  Vee Jay, there      had always been a sense of urgency to move any and all products out the door as quickly as possible regardless of appearances     or characteristics. VERSION 1 covers were assembled some time in late December 1963 and also early January 1964. But      like everything else that went on, just imagine what the quality control must have been like in those chaotic days. Actually there     were times when people wondered if any real COLUMN BACK jackets existed at all? And of course we know they do. However     the one test for authenticity that can never be disputed is the "HONEY" test which all REAL covers must pass. And this cover      PASSES IT ALONG WITH SEVERAL OTHER TESTS with flying colors which makes it 100% AUTHENTIC. It's a known fact      that NO FAKE has ever passed this test. So AS LONG AS THIS TEST IS PASSED, this cover is absolutely authentic. This      further solidifies the theory that the only rules at Vee Jay were that in 1964 there were no rules at all. 
        SIDE NOTE ....  Regarding the existence of these covers, until the 1990s, it was thought, because there had been so many          counterfeits produced over the years, this caused all concerned to believe that there were no legitimate copies ever released.          But when a real one turned up, there was quite a stir in the collector's market.  Right around that time, a well know collector          came across another authentic copy. This was verified by other well known experts and it confirms that indeed the LP known          today as the STEREO VERSION 1 "COLUMN BACK" or "TITLES ON BACK" really exists. In what quantity, no one will          ever know for sure since precise production figures do not exist. However, an educated guess would tell anyone that there          certainly had to have been quite a few more than the 2 mentioned here! Many are estimated to remain in the hands of private          collectors today, most of whom realize the value of such a rare LP. Logically no record company would EVER  have had a         production run of any product in quantities smaller than at least in the thousands.
    TEST #4 – Read the "Trail Off Area". This area of the record on most if not all FAKES is always wider than legit copies. On all      GENUINE copies, this  area varies between 3/4” & 7/8” but on FAKES it is often anywhere from 1” to 1 1/4”. Most  (but not all)       legitimate albums normally had raised relief machine stamped logos in the "Trail Off" areas. Since all machine stamps are very      hard to copy or duplicate, FAKES very often have no markings or only hand scratched ones. The most common machine stamps      are from AUDIO MATRIX (AR) or the ARP logo.       TEST #5 - Another trait of all FAKES is that they are pressed on much thinner vinyl. Always check for thickness by comparing an      LP that in doubt to a known legitimate copy and you'll see the difference.      TEST #6 - On the back of the jacket, "B" in "BEATLES" at the top right in FAKES has a noticeable ink irregularity in the lower      left inner section of the letter. In the REAL covers, the "B" is printed clearly with no flaws. Check out this feature against known      legitimate covers.      TEST #7 - On the back of the jacket, left of "MISERY", all the FAKES have a very noticeable ink irregularity in the north/south      post line. Some refer to this as an INK BUMP. It is very easily spotted.       TEST #8 - If the label's color band has NO color GREEN in its lower to middle left side, record is FAKE.      TEST #9 - Matrix Numbers are 63-3402 & 63-3403. Some job numbers are 5702 & 5689 preceded by small triangle. Pressing      IDs / Stampings are either AUDIO MATRIX, ARP, MR. Hand etchings are 6-29-63, RA or A. All others or lack thereof are FAKES.      TEST #10 - O

riginal covers 

have somewhat 

of a gloss to the paper stock used 

on back (glossiness or sheen may 

vary). But 

if the 

    paper used 

appears to be a completely FLAT WHITE STOCK,

it's a FAKE.

  
          (SEE SECTION 14 BELOW FOR  FURTHER DESCRIPTION OF "FLAP" TEST EXCEPTIONS).
    9.) It is important to note, THE most "FAKED" LP was the STEREO VERSION 1 "Column Back" album.  FAKES feature the song      titles on the outer jacket and record label: "P.S. I LOVE YOU" and "LOVE ME DO". However when you play a FAKE, these songs      are normally NOT on the disc. Instead you'll probably hear "PLEASE, PLEASE ME"  and "ASK ME WHY". (A few exceptions have      turned up playing "P.S. I LOVE YOU" & "LOVE ME DO", but in most cases, these usually turn out to be FAKES). Also note that even     though the outer jacket illustrates the word "STEREOPHONIC" at the top of the Front cover in GRAY on WHITE background, you      won't EVER find the word "STEREO" anywhere on the record label and the recording is in MONO as well.
    10.) Contrary to popular belief, there were NEVER any "REISSUES" of VERSION 1 or VERSION 2 LPs. And if you have seen any      version of this LP with a stock photo on the front with DARK BROWN border, or cover has YELLOW haze to it, it's FAKE! Keep in      mind that Vee Jay NEVER sealed these early albums so if you have one that is sealed, it's probably a FAKE! (Either a retail store or      a dealer SEALED copies of these records in most cases).
    11.) Recently it has come to our attention that some sellers feel they know all there is to know about this LP by posting bogus info.      For example, some state that unless "MICROGROOVE" appears on the label, the record is FAKE. NOT TRUE!  There are certain      variations that do NOT have either "LONG PLAYING" or "MICROGROOVE" on the label, and yet they are all legit pressings. Also      there are some who have stated that if you see the word "STEREO", it is not a legit pressing. NOT TRUE!  We have NEVER seen      the word "STEREO" on any fake label. But if it DOES appear on the label, it's authentic. And also there are some who have actually      stated that any STEREO OUTER JACKET offering the song titles "LOVE ME DO" and "P.S. LOVE YOU" is a FAKE! WHERE ARE      THESE PEOPLE GETTING THEIR INFORMATION?  Although rarely seen, every VERSION 1 STEREO COLUMN BACK features      "LOVE ME DO" and "P.S. I LOVE YOU" and since there were ONLY 2,202 COPIES EVER PRESSED, if found it would be worth a      small fortune in any condition.
    12.) Jackets with RED, WHITE & BLUE DOTS located under the top back side paper overlap are FAKES. The dots were normally      used during the printing process. They are CLEARLY VISIBLE WITHOUT THE NEED TO SEPARATE THE PAPER FROM THE      JACKET.  Disturbing the paper is NEVER recommended since it does seriously devalue the jacket once separated. Therefore if you      don't see any DOTS thru the PAPER, the COVER is REAL, AS LONG AS ALL OTHER TESTS ARE PASSED. And usually a FAKE      cover will be accompanied by a FAKE disc.
    13.) If the record has a label with a RAINBOW color band without high resolution or gradual color change, it's FAKE. Some labels      are plain BLACK with SILVER lettering with either a small [VJ] Brackets label or SILVER OVAL label. These have NO Color Band      and are the exceptions. Color Bands MUST INCLUDE the color "GREEN" or the record is a FAKE..
    14.) (RE: OUTER JACKET "FLAPS")  It's been disclosed by most knowledgeable experts that some WEST COAST COVERS have      been found to have NO FLAPS, yet they pass ALL THE OTHER LEGITIMACY TESTS which includes the all important and  100%      CONCLUSIVE "HONEY" TEST (listed above). Therefore with NO FLAPS present at all, jackets MUST STILL PASS ALL OTHER      TESTS  for legitimacy in order to be considered AUTHENTIC. In 1964 Vee Jay was known to have thrown caution to the wind when      it came to any resemblance of quality control. It's been stated by most experts that almost any STEREO disc might have paired with      any VERSION 1 cover. But passing the "HONEY" test is still THE MOST IMPORTANT test since  NO FAKE HAS PASSED THIS      TEST - EVER! Always keep that in mind when examining the results of any other tests. Nothing else matters. And a final word about      "FLAPS"; a well know collector, presently has a "MONO" cover, and another has 2 "STEREO COVERS" in their possession, none      having any "FLAPS". These are small numbers, but we point out that where there is one or two, common sense would dictate that      there had to have been more. As screwed up as Vee Jay would have been at that time, they never would have had any production      runs in single digit or such small quantities. Even for them it wouldn't have made sense.
    15.) We've had people write in and ask "WHY DO PAUL'S HANDS NOT APPEAR ON THE FRONT COVER?"  on certain versions      of INTRODUCING ... THE BEATLES. This comment mainly applies only to STEREO covers. His hands don't appear on any version      of this LP but they DO appear on MONOS and on STEREOS that DON'T have the word "STEREOPHONIC" printed across the top      of the front cover in GRAY on a WHITE BACKGROUND. Some STEREOS were housed in MONO covers with applied  "STEREO"      or "STEREOPHONIC" stickers. Only in these cases would you ever see "PAUL'S HANDS". Stickers are WHITE with BLACK ink. 
    16.) If you find what appears to be a VERSION 1 record, even from a distance its easy to spot a FAKE. I don't know how we forgot to      mention this. When surfing thru ebay listings, if you spot a STEREO JACKET with a vinyl disc and a Vee Jay "BRACKETS" label,      its either a FAKE or a VERSION 2. There are NO KNOWN VERSION 1 STEREO DISCS that have the "BRACKETS" label - only the      "OVAL" label.
    We only hope that this sets the record straight on these very important but often misunderstood points. If      anyone has any comments or feels that our information is lacking in any way, please come forward.
   Please take a moment and look over all of our listings.     SOMETHING FOR PROSPECTIVE BUYERS TO CONSIDER ...     It is important to point out that when we sellers on ebay set a price for any item, many factors are considered, one of which is that      the SELLER FEES can be up to 10% OF THE SELL PRICE. So, when you think that a price listed may be higher than anticipated,      or what you think it should be, please keep these added costs in mind. Thank you for watching!    A LITTLE BACKGROUND INFORMATION ...     Where does our knowledge of "Vee Jay" RECORDS originate? Although there have been several well done and well researched      publications produced about the history of the "BEATLES", their recordings, and companies who've had the unique opportunity      to have had an association with them, most if not all, have based their research solely upon THIRD PARTY INFORMATION and      whatever existing info or documents remained available. Regarding our specific expertise with respect to "Vee Jay", our owner      was fortunate enough to have had a relative who was personal friends of both Vivian Carter and also her husband Jimmy Bracken      (original "Vee Jay" owners). Their friendship goes back even to their days in the early 1950s in Gary, Indiana. Since he had some      previous experience at that time in the recording industry, they hired him to work at "Vee Jay". With his first hand knowledge of      everything that went on there thru December of 1964, his insight and experience with respect to daily operations along with the     internal issues that he graciously passed on to us, have been invaluable, originating from his personal life. Production & Vendor      issues were his areas of knowledge and expertise, which he was personally involved with daily, right on through the "BEATLES"      era. His first hand knowledge in addition to all his personal possessions and documents retained from his years there, have been      and always will be considered priceless to us. He had stated on many occasions that 1964 was a stressful year for everyone there.      Although he remained friends with the BRACKENS, it was no longer a place he felt he could continue to work and contribute. We      are happy to have had the opportunity to pass on what is considered some of the greatest personal insight and experience ever      obtained from an employee of a recording company of such historical significance.
     ALL ITEMS ARE PROFESSIONALLY PACKAGED! 
   BUY WITH CONFIDENCE! YOUR SITE FOR "AUTHENTIC" BEATLES VINYL!
   FREE SHIPPING:  Whenever "FREE SHIPPING" is offered, this applies to the "BUY IT NOW" price and any Records & CDs        over $100.00. All other shall pay calculated shipping charges to their destination. Thank you.
   ATTENTION ALL PROSPECTIVE BUYERS!  Thank you for visiting our site. We want to remind everyone that if you currently        don't happen to see what you're looking for here on our site, it doesn't mean that we don't have it in stock or can't get        it for you. We simply cannot list everything that we have all at once. 
   However, in our current inventory, we have THOUSANDS of VINYL Albums, PROMOS & 45s, CDs, DVDs, Cassette Tapes,        VHS Movies, PROMOS, Metal Stampers and much more in the category that we would call "COLLECTIBLES". 
    With respect BATTERIES, we have a full line of SEALED LEAD ACID (SLA) BATTERIES, in addition to just about every Cell        Phone, Digital Camera, 2-Way Radio, NiCad-ALKALINE-NMHi and many other Batteries, in additional to a complete line of        BATTERY CHARGERS. (Quantity Discounts will apply for all).         Unfortunately, it would have been impossible to have initially listed everything, so if you are looking something in particular and        don't happen to see it on our site today, simply send us a written REQUEST and we will be happy to list it for you. Once again,       Thank you for watching and we look forward to hearing from you anytime!     All vinyl records are sold on the basis of collectability, rarity, scarcity, with special consideration in some cases given specifically to whom the       artist happens to be. Also factored in is a physical and visual examination of play surfaces, labels, outer jacket and an inner sleeve (where it             is applicable)  and in most cases when there is obvious issues to the naked eye which we feel would most certainly affect play. This would be        a part of the item's description (however unless a record is of extreme rarity and does have value regardless of it's condition), we try to avoid        ever selling severely damaged records. We point out that  "THE BEATLES"  are in a category all their own and in cases with many of their       extremely rare items, we have sold some of their records even when they did have surface issues, however their value in any condition made       these specific items retain a certain value and collectability and a buyer would be made aware of it before we would ever sell it. We don't play       test vinyl since we have tens of thousands of vinyl records in stock, making it impossible to play each of them. So please remember this when       buying and always ask questions prior to finalizing any purchase.

On Jul-09-16 at 09:15:16 PDT, seller added the following information:

Compare this to all of the FAKES that appear every day on ebay.