THE SMITHS Self Titled LP UK 1st Press Double Dip Rough 61 Vinyl A1/B1 V-EX

	£		45
	$		60

This is the definitive 1984 UK first pressing of "The Smiths'" landmark self-titled debut album – catalogue "ROUGH 61", complete with the earliest A1/B1 hand-etched matrices, original Joe Dallesandro picture sleeve, and the original maroon printed lyric inner sleeve.

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

Drop the needle and you're transported straight back to Manchester in 1984. Johnny Marr's shimmering, jangly guitar work sounds vibrant, dynamic and wonderfully analogue, capturing the unmistakable character that made this record a cornerstone of British independent music.

Unlike the many later pressings and heavily played copies now circulating, genuine first-issue A1/B1 examples with the Double Dip labels and clean, glossy playing surfaces have become increasingly difficult to find.

First Press Highlights:
Features the sought-after Carlton "Double Dip" label, identified by the distinctive stepped circular pressing ring stamped into the paper label. This is the unmistakable hallmark of Carlton Productions, the Irish pressing plant commissioned by Rough Trade for the album's earliest production run.

Earliest A1/B1 Matrix:
The runout grooves are hand-etched:
Side 1: ROUGH 61 A1
Side 2: ROUGH 61 B1
These are the earliest known UK matrix numbers for the album and are highly sought after by collectors.

Original Cursive Rough Trade Logo:
The labels feature the elegant cursive "Rough Trade" logo used on the earliest pressings before later issues adopted the more familiar block-style logo.

Condition Report:
Vinyl (V-VG+ to V-EX):
The vinyl retains an attractive original factory gloss. Under strong direct light there are some light surface marks, hairlines and paper scuffs consistent with careful use over more than forty years. Importantly, there are no deep scratches, gouges or feelable marks that would normally be associated with skipping or other significant playback issues. Overall, this remains a very clean and highly presentable example, making it an excellent collector's copy that is also well suited for regular enjoyment.

Outer Sleeve (VG+):
The original card sleeve remains in excellent condition. Fully legible spine. No seam splits or heavy creasing. Only light signs of age-related handling consistent with it's age.

Original Lyric Inner Sleeve (VG- - G+):
The original maroon printed lyric inner sleeve is included. It remains structurally sound with no seam splits or tears. However, please note there is a brown splotch stain on the front, which has been clearly shown in the accompanying photographs for complete transparency.

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 and photographed where applicable. As the record has not been recently play-tested, I cannot guarantee completely silent playback, and some light surface noise or occasional crackle, as is common with vintage vinyl.
That said, based on its visual condition and my experience with handling vinyl, I am confident this copy should provide an enjoyable listening experience. Sold as described and graded on visual inspection".

Delivery & Packaging Details:

Professional Vinyl Packaging.
Seam Split Protection.
The record will be removed from its outer jacket and inner sleeve prior to packing. This prevents the vinyl from cutting through the seams during transit.
Shipped securely 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 1–2 business days.
Full tracking.

Grab yourself a true 80's masterpiece today!