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# Pricey Record-Breaking Vinyls
The Tommy Johnson 78 RPM From 1930 Breaks Records

By Thomas Wade-West | Published 2013-10-12 | Lifestyle
Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/breaking-vinyl
References: [luxurylaunches](http://luxurylaunches.com/other_stuff/most-expensive-78-rpm-record.php)

The Tommy Johnson 78 RPM is an example of [record-breaking vinyl](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/beer-infused-vinyl); the 80+ year old record sold for $37,100. This makes the Tommy Johnson one of the most expensive 78 RPM record releases ever.

Vinyl fanatics pride themselves on owning a physical piece of history; the Tommy Johnson 78 RPM is not only nostalgic but represents a style of record (the 78) that has been surpassed by the more common 33.3 RPM records of today. This particular piece was just one of a few very limited releases by the artist. The record went on sale over [eBay](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/cheezit-jukebox) and was purchased by John Tefteller (owner of over 75,000 records.)

Tefteller's collection is currently located at the British Museum of the [Blues](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/dales-ipa-mix-pack), and this new addition is considered one of the rarest in his massive collection.

## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter)

- Score: 2.1/10
- Popularity: 31% | Activity: 24% | Freshness: 8%
- Audience gender: 70% men, 30% women
- Primary generations: Millennial
- Top markets: North America, Asia

## Categories

[Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Lifestyle](https://www.trendhunter.com/lifestyle) > [Life](https://www.trendhunter.com/life)

## Key Themes

### What Makes This Trend Stand Out

- **Rising Vinyl Record Prices:** The increasing value of rare vinyl records presents an opportunity for collectors and investors.
- **Nostalgic Vinyl Resurgence:** The renewed interest in vinyl records opens up possibilities for businesses in the music industry to capitalize on this nostalgic trend.
- **Limited Edition Record Releases:** Creating limited edition vinyl records offers a chance for artists and record labels to generate hype and increase sales.

### Sectors Adopting This

- **Collectibles:** The booming market for rare vinyl records creates opportunities for businesses in the collectibles industry to cater to avid collectors.
- **Music Retail:** The resurgence of vinyl records creates an opportunity for music retailers to expand their product offerings and capitalize on the trend.
- **Artists and Record Labels:** Creating limited edition vinyl records allows artists and record labels to tap into the growing market of vinyl enthusiasts and increase their revenue.

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