Johnny Cash At San Quentin Vinyl LP Value Guide

Recorded on February 24, 1969, this iconic live album captures Johnny Cash's raw performance at San Quentin State Prison. It is a cornerstone of the outlaw country movement, famously featuring the hit 'A Boy Named Sue' and solidifying Cash's 'Man in Black' persona.

What affects the value of Johnny Cash At San Quentin Vinyl LP?

• Condition of the vinyl surface, specifically the absence of scratches that cause skips during 'A Boy Named Sue'.
• The state of the cardboard jacket, including the presence of ring wear, seam splits, or original price stickers.
• Presence of the original paper inner sleeve which can increase the value toward the $15 range.
• Pressing plant variations, as certain US regional pressings are more sought after by niche collectors.

How to Identify Johnny Cash At San Quentin Vinyl LP?

• Check for the original 1969 Columbia Records 'two-eye' label design for first pressings.
• Verify the catalog number CS 9827 printed on the top right of the front cover and the spine.
• Look for the 'Columbia' branding and the walking eye logo on the cardboard sleeve and vinyl label.
• Inspect the matrix runout for stamped identifiers consistent with 1969 United States manufacturing.

History of Johnny Cash At San Quentin Vinyl LP

Johnny Cash's 'At San Quentin' is a legendary live album recorded on February 24, 1969, at San Quentin State Prison in California. This was the second in a series of live prison concerts Cash performed, following 'At Folsom Prison'. The album features Cash's raw and powerful performance, resonating deeply with the inmates and catapulting 'A Boy Named Sue' to a number one hit. It solidified Cash's outlaw image and cemented his status as 'The Man in Black', a voice for the marginalized.