The Beatles

12 inch photo illustrated glossy LP record sleeve; some creasing, minor fading along open edge, lacking vinyl LP.

 Parlophone 1206 (Mono version)

some creasing, minor fading along open edge, lacking vinyl LP.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

signed by john, paul, george and ringo on the reverse in ballpoint.

With the Beatles, released on 22 November, 1963 was the group's second album,  feauring 7  Lennon-McCartney originals (including "All My Loving")  and the first George Harrison song to appear on a Beatles record, "Don't Bother Me." With Beatlemania sweeping the UK in the wake of their debut, over 500,000 copes were ordered before release and it quickly sold twice that, becoming the second recording to sell a million copies. The record stayed on the top of the British charts for 21 weeks (displacing their debut at number 1) With the Beatles near counterpart (differing in track listing, but with the same famous cover image)  was issued as Meet the Beatles! in the US in January, 1964, exporting the hysteria for the band across the Atlantic.

The cover photograph portrait by Robert Freeman has become an iconic image, copied and parodied by numerous groups, including most infamously The Residents.