Unfinished Music No. 1: Two Virgins Value Guide

Estimated Value
$140 – $155
Period
1968
Origin
United Kingdom
Materials
Cardboard, Vinyl, Paper

Released in 1968 as the first Apple Records release, Unfinished Music No. 1: Two Virgins is a landmark of avant-garde music and counter-culture history. This collectible is most famous for its controversial full-frontal nudity cover, which necessitated the inclusion of a plain brown paper outer sleeve for retail distribution.

What Is Unfinished Music No. 1: Two Virgins Worth?

The typical price range for Unfinished Music No. 1: Two Virgins is $140 - $155 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

  • The presence and physical condition of the original brown paper bag significantly dictate the final value.
  • The state of the vinyl surface, as experimental recordings require clean playback for serious collectors.
  • Minimal wear or staining on the white-heavy cover art, which is prone to yellowing over time.
  • The inclusion of any original regional inserts or specific Apple Records catalog markings.

How to Identify Unfinished Music No. 1: Two Virgins?

  • Confirm the presence of the original brown paper outer sleeve used to hide the controversial cover art.
  • Check for the Apple Records label, marking this as the debut release for the legendary record company.
  • Verify the 1968 UK pressing details and matrix numbers on the vinyl itself.
  • Inspect the cardboard sleeve for the specific high-contrast photography of John Lennon and Yoko Ono.

History of Unfinished Music No. 1: Two Virgins

Released in 1968, this avant-garde album became infamous for its cover art featuring full-frontal nudity of Lennon and Ono. Due to the controversy, the album was distributed in a plain brown paper bag to conceal the artwork from public view in record stores. It was the first release on the Apple Records label and remains a significant piece of counter-culture history.

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