UB40 Signing Off 1980 1st Press GRAD LP2 Vinyl LP Card Envelope Sleeve EX/VG+

	£		29
	$		38

UB40 - Signing Off (1980 UK First Pressing, Graduate Records GRAD LP2)

This is the definitive 1980 UK first pressing of UB40's landmark debut album – "Signing Off" (Catalogue number: GRAD LP2), complete with the earliest production run matrices, the original flat card envelope picture sleeve mimicking the iconic unemployment card, and the original printed inner sleeves.

For serious collectors of 1980s reggae, post-punk, and alternative British music, this is one of the most desirable variants of one of the decade's defining, politically charged debut albums.

Drop the needle and you're transported straight back to Birmingham in 1980. The deep, dub-heavy basslines and sharp, distinctive saxophone work sound vibrant, dynamic, and wonderfully analogue, capturing the raw independent character that made this record a cornerstone of British music history.

Unlike the many later reissues and heavily played copies now circulating, genuine first-issue UK examples with clean, glossy playing surfaces and fully intact card envelope sleeves have become increasingly difficult to find.

First Press Highlights
The Definitive Graduate Label: Features the sought-after original Graduate Records labels used on the earliest production run before later international licensing and major label reissues took over.
Earliest UK Matrix: The runout grooves feature the original earliest hand-etched or stamped UK matrix numbers for this release (GRAD LP2 A / B), highly sought after by audiophiles and collectors.
Iconic "UB40 Card" Envelope Sleeve: The iconic sleeve perfectly replicates the original UK government unemployment attendance card format. Includes the bold red "SIGNING OFF" stamp on the front, representing the moment the band left the benefit system due to their rapid musical success.

Condition Report:
Vinyl (V-VG+ to V-EX): The vinyl retains an attractive original factory gloss. Under strong direct light, there are only a few light surface marks, minor paper scuffs, or superficial hairlines consistent with careful handling over the decades. There are no deep scratches or feelable marks that would impact play. It remains a clean, highly presentable example suited for regular enjoyment.

Outer Envelope Sleeve (VG+): The original unique card envelope sleeve remains in excellent condition. Sharp edges, no heavy creasing, and only light signs of age-related handling consistent with a record of this vintage.

Inner Sleeves (VG+): Includes the original printed inner sleeves. They remain structurally sound with no major splits or heavy tears, keeping the vinyl well-protected.

Grading Disclaimer:
This vintage record has been visually graded under bright direct light and carefully inspected for scratches, gouges, and other significant defects, all of which have been accurately described. As the record has not been recently play-tested, I cannot guarantee completely silent playback, and some light surface noise or occasional minor crackle may be present, as is common with vintage vinyl. That said, based on its excellent visual condition, I am confident this copy will provide an outstanding listening experience. Sold as described and graded on visual inspection.

Delivery & Packaging Details:
Professional Vinyl Packaging: Shipped securely to ensure the record arrives exactly as described.
Seam Split Protection: The vinyl discs will be removed from their outer jacket and inner sleeves prior to packing to prevent the records from cutting through the paper seams during transit.
Rigid Mailers: Shipped in a professional, heavy-duty, rigid cardboard vinyl mailer with extra internal stiffeners to prevent bending or corner dings.
Carrier: Royal Mail Tracked. Ships within 1–3 business days with full tracking provided.

Grab yourself a true 80's masterpiece today!