The Clash Combat Rock LP Value Guide

Combat Rock represents the commercial zenith of The Clash, blending their punk roots with funk and reggae. This 1982 release is a cornerstone of any vinyl collection, featuring the iconic Pennie Smith cover photo of the band on railroad tracks in Thailand.

What affects the value of The Clash Combat Rock LP?

• Vinyl condition is paramount; scratches or surface noise significantly reduce the $20-$25 market value.
• The presence of original promotional stickers or 'hype' stickers on the outer shrink wrap can increase collector interest.
• Sleeve integrity, specifically looking for ring wear, seam splits, or spine damage common in 1980s cardboard stock.
• Pressing origin, as original UK first pressings often command a slight premium over standard US mass-market releases.

How to Identify The Clash Combat Rock LP?

• Check for the original 1982 Epic Records or CBS labels with the 'Combat Rock' title and tracklist including 'Rock the Casbah'.
• Verify the matrix numbers etched in the run-out groove to distinguish between original UK/US pressings and later reissues.
• Look for the distinct Pennie Smith photography on the cardboard sleeve, which should have a matte finish on early editions.
• Ensure the presence of the original printed inner sleeve which often featured lyrics and additional band photography.

History of The Clash Combat Rock LP

Combat Rock is the fifth studio album by British punk rock band The Clash, released in 1982. It produced the hits Rock the Casbah and Should I Stay or Should I Go and marked the band’s commercial peak, blending punk with reggae, funk and dance influences. The album’s cover photo of the band by photographer Pennie Smith became iconic of early 1980s punk culture.