Red Seal Collector Series - Fritz Kreisler

By DjIndy, 2 April, 2025
Description

I've tried doing some research, but having no luck with the "Red Seal Collector's Issue."

This particular recording seems to be on the market in a 33RPM version and originally recorded around 1926. I'm assuming this was issued in the 50's but the only marking in the runout is the B8RW and VID.

The sleeve is in good condition other than wear at the bottom where the record was dropped in. The vinyl is red and Mr. Kreisler's work is somewhat rare.

Category
Music and Music Instruments
Medium
red vinyl
Distinguishing marks
Noted above B8RW VID is etched in the runout. Recorded in Europe.
Condition
Excellent
Size and dimensions of this item
7" Vinyl
Date Period
1950's?
Price Paid (If known)
Purchase 30 years ago with a victrola at an auction.
For Sale?
No
Photos

Charley

3 months 1 week ago

Item Description:
This item is a vintage RCA Victor Red Seal Collector’s Issue 45 RPM vinyl record pressed on distinctive translucent red vinyl. It features legendary Austrian-American violinist Fritz Kreisler with piano accompaniment by Carl Lamson and Franz Rupp, performing two pieces:

  • Side 1: Old Folks at Home (Swanee River) by Stephen Foster, arranged by Fritz Kreisler. Recorded February 27, 1928.
  • Side 6: Londonderry Air, arranged by Fritz Kreisler. Recorded in Europe (exact date not stated, likely late 1920s).

The record is housed in its original gold-toned RCA Victor paper sleeve, which is in good to very good condition with minor wear at the bottom edge. The gold label on the vinyl carries the RCA monogram and the iconic “His Master’s Voice” logo.

Historical Context:
The Red Seal series by RCA Victor was introduced in the early 20th century to highlight high-quality classical recordings. These particular red vinyl Collector’s Issue 45s were reissued in the 1950s in response to public demand for historic performances in a newer format. They were marketed toward classical music aficionados, offering superior visual appeal and fidelity in their time. Kreisler, known for his warm tone and expressive phrasing, was one of the most famous violinists of the early 20th century.

Material & Production Marks:

  • Format: 7-inch 45 RPM
  • Material: Translucent red vinyl
  • Matrix/runout etchings: B8RW and VID (identifies vinyl pressing)
  • Manufacturer: RCA Victor Division, Radio Corporation of America, Camden, NJ, USA
  • Likely manufactured c. 1953–1955

Condition:

  • Vinyl: Excellent – no visible scratches, retains shine
  • Sleeve: Very good – some wear on the bottom edge, overall intact with clear text and design
  • Audio (assumed): If play-tested and clean, fidelity should be excellent due to lower groove wear on 45 RPM vinyl.

Current Market Value (2025):

  • Retail Estimate: $15–$25 USD
  • Auction/Resale: $10–$20 USD depending on buyer interest and condition
  • Premium Factors: Red vinyl, original sleeve, classical niche, artist prestige
  • Less common for 45s, increasing appeal to collectors of classical vinyl or RCA ephemera.

Recommendation:
No professional authentication is necessary unless part of a larger rare record or historical archive collection. However, if you’re considering selling in a high-profile vinyl auction or museum context (e.g., for a collection on early 20th-century violin recordings), reaching out to a vinyl appraisal specialist like those listed with the Association of Recorded Sound Collections (ARSC) or Heritage Auctions might be worthwhile.

Average: 5 (1 vote)