JAZZ 78 BIX BEIDERBECKE UNIQUE TEST PRESSING THOU SWELL
$
3,000
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Description
BIX BEIDERBECKE TEST PRESSING.
This is a unique and important jazz record, a 10 3/4” OKeh one-sided test pressing of the unissued “A” take of “Thou Swell” by Bix Beiderbecke and His Gang. This record was obtained by Tom Pletcher in 1977 after receiving the short letter shown in this listing. The record was originally found in a junkshop in New Jersey, and had travelled in a military man’s trunk around the world for many years.
There are 2 tracks on the disc, with the first one being a short breakdown where voices and the piano are heard. The second is a complete rendition of “Thou Swell”, with notable differences from the issued “C” take.
Visually, I would grade it as V. However, it plays very well, certainly up to a V+ level. There are 4 lams of 2-3” each, which are audible. There is also a crease of about 9” which runs across the disc but does not seem to affect play. I think it was caused by pressure on the edge of the record; since this is a laminated pressing it did not break. I have included a scan of this area. This damage has been repaired on the reverse and it is stable (see scan).
This is a unique opportunity to own an important and unique jazz classic. Due to the rarity and importance of this item, I have not quoted shipping costs – shipping and insurance arrangements will be determined with the winning bidder after the auction closes.
Grading:
Grading is guaranteed, and is per the standard VJM scale: N, N-, E+, E, E-, V+, V, V-, G+, G, G-, F. I have over 25 years’ experience grading and shipping 78s, and grade very conservatively.
Shipping:
Packing and shipping costs will be charged at cost.
If insurance is desired, the cost will be quoted after the auction closes.
Payment Options:
Paypal, International Money Order in US dollars. The Paypal address is jazzoracle@sympatico.ca
Returns:
Your satisfaction is guaranteed and any item can be returned for a full refund within 14 days.
