An Album’s Value Is About More Than the Music
Other factors affect the value of an album, including a record label or address of the recording studio, which can indicate if it’s a first or second pressing; the country in which the album was released; and whether the album was autographed.
The condition of the album cover is as important as the vinyl itself. Water damage, tears and marks can all decrease an album’s value. However, Allen and other collectors frequently buy the album alone if it’s in good shape and the cover isn’t, and vice versa.
Allen advises anyone who is trying to sell their collection to take it to their local vintage record store and have them take a look and let you know what’s worth money.
One couple recently brought two wheeled suitcases full of albums into Bananas Record, and they were able to sell many of them for a total of $60.
Here’s What Your DVDs and CDs Are Actually Worth
What about DVDs, CDs and even 8-tracks? Allen and Genny Stout, manager of Bananas Records, have some guidance for anyone trying to unload their old movies and music.
CDs
CDs are less popular each year, as there are fewer cars with CD players. Stout usually pays 25 cents for them.
DVDs
Stout will offer up to 50 cents for DVDs from the ‘80s and ‘90s that aren’t very common. This does not include romantic comedies and blockbusters like “The Matrix.”
“Nobody wants to buy romantic comedies, or all the Adam Sandler movies,” Stout said.
A Disney classic in good shape might bring $1 or $2.
“Most of those are destroyed because people let their children put them in and out [of the DVD players],” Stout said.
VHS
“We haven’t purchased those in 5 to 6 years,” she said, adding that it’s hard to find non-profit retail stores that accept them.
8-Track
“I would say there’s no market for them with the exception of a cult following,” Allen said. “Maybe a KISS 8-track, something you wouldn’t expect.” Those might bring in $10 to $15.
Katherine Snow Smith is a contributor to The Penny Hoarder.