Metallica Load 1996 Elektra 61923-1 Original 1st US Sterling Pressing 2 LP's EX

$

85

   For sale is Metallica's Load, originally released in 1996 by Elektra Records in a double album set with a gate-fold presentation. In the dead wax between the labels and the last tracks are the matrix numbers A-1/B-1/C-1/D-1 followed by "Sterling". This indicates that a first stamper was used to make this first pressing and it was mastered at Sterling Sound, N.Y.C, known for their state-of-the art engineering and superior sound quality. I bought this new, professionally cleaned it on my VPI HW-17 and immediately put the two records into MFSL archival inner sleeves. I always put my new records directly into a protective inner sleeve(s), thus preserving the integrity of the vinyl and any original insert(s) or inner sleeve(s) that may have come with the listing. The inner sleeves are Near Mint. The vinyl is visually graded as Excellent with very fine surface scratches, but I would have to play grade it as Near Mint with a like-new play-through. I am the one and only owner and have played it once or twice before today. The cover is graded as Excellent because of minor edge rubs. The spine is Excellent with only a couple of 1/8" spots of color loss at the ends. It's been played only on Audiophile equipment since I've owned it and still has a lot of life yet. This is the best copy of this record that I have ever seen or heard. I think that you would be hard pressed to find this album in this condition ever again, since it has become so scarce. This would make a great addition to anyone's collection. I have a lot more Rock and Roll albums, as well as records of all genres, in my Ebay Store. Please take a look. They're almost all Near Mint. Thanks for viewing my listing.    I've been collecting records for about 50 years now and have always cleaned them and put them away carefully in plastic inner sleeves. Over the years I've used Dust Bugs, Disc Washers and have finally invested in a professional VPI record cleaning machine. Now that I'm retiring, I'm selling my very esoteric collection. I'm not a professional grader of records, but will use record guides, as well as my personal experiences as a basis of my grading all records. Since grading is subjective, I will be conservative. I offer discounts for multiple sales. Photos are of the actual item for sale, not a stock photo. Please review all descriptions and photos because I do not accept returns. Thank you for looking!