How can you determine a value of old Decca records and old Columbia records?

Answer 1

I assume that by "old records" you mean 78s, the old heavy singles that disappeared from record stores by 1960. The value of 78s is largely determined by three things: rarity, collector interest and condition. The label is usually not a significant factor unless the label itself is rare, and neither the Decca nor Columbia labels are rare. In fact, if you grab a handful of 78s at random, it is likely at least half will be on one of these two labels. Having said that, there is a rough way to determine relatively elevated value based upon the type of Decca or Columbia label on the record. DECCA (began 1934). There are three main categories of Decca label: blue "sunburst", blue "flat" and black. The "sunburst" label has somewhat elevated collector interest; it is called that because the DECCA logo is in block letters with a false perspective that seems to spring from one point, in an art deco style. These were made until about 1937, at which time the logo was changed to a "flat" block letter logo without perspective. These and the later black label Deccas usually have little value. COLUMBIA (began 1901). The history of this label is too long, and there are too many label variations, to provide a comprehensive listing here, but a few permutations are worth mentioning. First of all, most CBS Columbias have little value, especially the red label popular series. Most collectors see that red label and pass right by. But if you find any Columbias that are all blue--both the label and the record itself--then you have what is called a "Blue Wax" Columbia, and these almost always have considerably elevated value, especially if they have popular or jazz content and are in good condition. Another label type with elevated value is the "flag" label, which has two red, white and blue flags on a metallic gold or copper background. This label was only issued for a short time in 1924. And any single-sided Columbia, most of which have plain black labels with white or silver printing, has elevated value. Black Columbias with gold printing, with "Columbia Phonograph Company" and "Viva-Tonal" on the label, may have somewhat elevated value if they are in excellent condition or feature country or "race" songs. But I caution that this is only a very rough guide to relative value. You never know when a 78 is valuable, especially if it is a Robert Johnson 78 (if you do, have it professionally appraised right away!). If you're interested in selling 78s, I recommend signing up for the 78-C list, found at: http://groups.Yahoo.com/group/78-c/ You can post a message there and see what interest it attracts. It helps if you provide a specific list with at least the following information: Label, catalog number, artist(s) and titles.

Answer 2

The value of old Columbia records will vary depending on their age and condition. The value may also depend on the popularity of the particular Columbia record you are trying to sell.