As vinyl records enjoy a resurgence and nostalgia for cassette tapes grows, what about CDs? CDs have made a strong comeback too, with some fetching impressive prices among music enthusiasts and collectors. Those who have held onto their old CD collections may be in for a lucrative surprise. Here are 15 vintage CDs that could be worth a significant amount of money today.1. The Beatles: ‘The Beatles in Mono’ (Box Set, 2009) on eBay
This limited-edition box set contains the Beatles’ albums in their original mono mixes from the ‘60s. With only a few thousand copies ever produced, this 12-CD set has become a sought-after item for collectors. Brand new sets can sell for over $200, while autographed sets can fetch even higher prices.2. Prince: ‘The Black Album’ (Original Pressing, 1994) on eBay
Initially pulled by Prince himself just before its 1987 release, “The Black Album” is considered one of the rarest CDs in his discography. Released in limited numbers, this CD is a prized possession for collectors, with prices ranging from $50 to over $150 for a single copy. The album’s mysterious backstory adds to its allure.3. Depeche Mode: ‘Music for the Masses’ (Limited Edition Box Set, 1987) on eBay
This special box set of “Music for the Masses” includes exclusive artwork and collectible postcards selected by the band. With only a small quantity released, it has become a valuable find for Depeche Mode fans, selling for around $700 in good condition.4. Queen: ‘Innuendo’ (Hollywood Records Promo, 1991) on eBay
The promotional Hollywood Records version of Queen’s “Innuendo” is highly prized for its rarity and unique artwork. Distributed in limited numbers to industry professionals, well-preserved copies can command prices of around $200 or more.5. The Smashing Pumpkins: ‘Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness’ (Limited Edition Box Set, 1995) on eBay
Die-hard fans covet this box set edition of “Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness” for its exclusive artwork, lyric booklets, and rare prints. Copies in excellent condition can sell for over $1,000.6. Oasis: ‘(What’s the Story) Morning Glory?’ (UK Promo CD, 1995) on eBay
The U.K. promo version of Oasis’s “(What’s the Story) Morning Glory?” is a sought-after item for collectors due to its distinctive artwork and limited release for media use. Mint condition copies can fetch around $100 or more.7. The Cure: ‘Wish’ (Japanese First Pressing, 1992) on eBay
Collectors value the Japanese and Brazilian pressings of The Cure
Highly sought-after among fans of the acclaimed band is the promo version of the album, which adds exclusive tracks or alternate artwork, increasing its lasting appeal. Collectors are willing to pay over $1,000 to own this rare piece of hip-hop history.
Tool’s “Aenima” is a cult favorite in the heavy metal and rock world, with the original pressing of the CD featuring the whimsical lenticular cover fetching higher prices due to its rarity and limited availability. Copies in excellent condition can sell for around $200 or more, while sealed versions command even higher prices.
The Japanese edition of Pearl Jam’s album “Ten” is revered for its top-tier audio mastering and unique artwork, making it a treasured item among grunge music collectors. Depending on the condition and packaging, this CD typically sells for around $50 or more, with mint copies occasionally commanding much higher prices.
The special edition of Radiohead’s “OK Computer” includes exclusive artwork, a hardcover book, and a bonus disc with rare tracks, making it a prized possession for collectors who value its design and rare content. A pristine copy of this edition can be valued at around $500.
Fleetwood Mac’s “Rumours” album pressing from West Germany is considered rare due to its unique sound quality and mixing, with early pressings featuring the iconic cover art of a young Mick Fleetwood and Stevie Nicks. Depending on the condition, these CDs can be worth several hundred dollars, with signed copies fetching even higher prices.
The first pressing of Nirvana’s acclaimed album “Nevermind” is a holy grail for grunge collectors and Kurt Cobain fans, especially those with the original uncensored baby photo artwork. Mint-condition first pressings can sell for close to a grand, with sealed copies fetching even higher prices.
Promotional copies of David Bowie’s “Outside” album featuring alternate artwork are highly sought after by collectors, as they were distributed in small numbers to critics and radio stations, making them an ultra-rare find. In good condition, a copy can sell for over $100, with sealed copies fetching even higher prices.
The Japanese first pressing of Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” is highly sought-after for its superior sound quality and unique packaging, with collectors willing to pay around $200 for a copy, especially if it includes the original OBI strip and inserts. Copies signed by Jackson can be worth a small fortune, with prices hovering around $15,000.
