Simon & Garfunkel Bookends 1968 MONO White Label Promo LP Vinyl WLP Play Tested

$

510

Very uncommon & complete 1968 Simon & Garfunkel debut record Bookends radio station White Label Promo that features unique Mono mix for AM station playback and DJ timing strip on cover.
Rare is often overused, but applies here for a few important reasons:
Earliest 1A suffix in deadwax matrix indicated earliest pressing. Unique AM radio mono mix that differs substantially from stereo cut. Promo copy that was generally 1st off the presses sent direct to radio stations. Unique Columbia two eye "DEMONSTRATION NFS" PROMO white label. Radio Station "timing strip" applied to lower front cover, assists program directors/DJ's. Unused full color poster. Unique "SPECIAL MONO RADIO STATION COPY" intact upper left front of jacket.
This copy has been dual (solution & clean rinse) stage wet cleaned, air dried and then installed in new static free inner with a new 3ml outer protecting the lot. You will receive the record ready to play!
This record has also been fully play tested on a vintage analog system, including Pioneer PL-530 turntable.
Conservatively graded with extensive photograph documentation to assure no surprises. Record pix outside in full sunlight for maximum transparency as to visual condition which is actually a bit misleading, as it plays much better than those extreme photographs illustrate.
VINYL - VG:
While many superficial paper scuffs and other use/handling marks are present there is not a single mark I could close my eyes and find with fingernail, which is part of the industry Goldmine grading standard for VG. Other observed visual condition attributes (lack of apparent groove wear and sheen still present) actually would improve grade, but again I'm making effort to be conservative. Dead flat, no dish or edge warp. Expected spindle marks on label. Slight discoloration on outer rim of side 2 label from two to five o'clock position with other less apparent signs of use.
JACKET - VG:
I actually feel like this could be graded VG+, but again erring on conservative side. Minor ringwear on front, primarily around Art's head and at bottom of white timing strip. Timing strip shows a small bit of damage on bottom edge under side two track listings and a red ink smear. Small corner bumps, with worst lower right at about 1/4". Seamsplit starting dead center of spine, about 1" and similar lower left bottom. Spine text details still fully legible. Hairline scratch going through Simon's hair that disturbs the black & white photo. 
Back cover extremely light ring wear, almost impossible to photograph, a couple 1/16'' inch spots of discoloration and back slick delaminating lower left corner.
Original poster in unused condition, no holes, tears, rips or other damage noted. There is some minor waviness on the upper outer corners, and attribute that to those edges overlapping the vinyl.
Original custom inner sleeve is flat and no seam splits indicated.
VINYL PLAYGRADE: VG+
Fully tested, record payed straight through on my system without skips.
Surface noise throughout with audible pops and clicks. Some repeating, primarily noticeable in quietest passages but in no way overbearing or unlistenable.
Please, take the time to check out the five YouTube videos I've uploaded of this record playing. It will give you a real world demo of the quality of this record.



Please see detailed pictures which serve to fully inform and show condition and are to be considered part of the item description.

 Again, while surface noise is present, I did not find any tracks that were unlistenable.
I highly encourage interested buyers to check out the YouTube video clips of this copy being played on my system, cut and paste these links into your browswer:
https://youtu.be/6U6dr2SSKtw
https://youtu.be/1f4TpGmJyHk
https://youtu.be/vhNA2_0LYXo
https://youtu.be/WjEH_OrYm30
https://youtu.be/09ZtAsZ3Z6k
Will be expertly shipped in heavy duty record mailer with stiffeners to prevent warping and protect from heat damage, with record outside jacket to avoid splitting ensuring it arrives in described condition and sent US Postal Media Mail w/tracking, fully insured in US.
International Priority w/tracking for rest of world.
Faster options available if desired, message me for pricing on available potions.
Check my seller feedback, 100% happy customers.