Collector's Guide to Victor Records

With roots extending all the way back to the birth of the disc recording industry, Victor reigned supreme throughout the 78 rpm era. Herein lies the story of Victor's standard-catalog 78 rpm record label, traced from Berliner (its predecessor) to the demise of the 78 rpm format. All four of Victors standard label colors (Black, Red, Blue & Purple) are documented in detail along with all changes made to the Victor label throughout its 60 year run. The second section of the book highlights many of the notable singers, personalities and world leaders who recorded for Victor, leaving a priceless, treasured legacy for future generations. Included are such luminaries as Enrico Caruso, Leopold Stokowski, Will Rogers, Nellie Melba, King George V, Charles Lindbergh, Theodore Roosevelt, Harry Lauder, Adelina Patti, Amos & Andy, Robert Peary and dozens of others. The Victor Talking Machine Company (later RCA Victor) produced countless recordings outside their normal domestic catalog issues. The third section features ethnic recordings, imports, picture discs, puzzle records, subsidiary labels such as Bluebird and Zonophone, contract pressings, pattern labels, long-playing Program Transcriptions, vanity issues, children's records, test pressings, radio transcriptions, demo records, soundtrack discs, client labels, in-house recordings and sample pressings. There's even a page devoted to errors and imitation records! The fourth section includes pictures of record sleeves, company catalogs, supplements and other Victor publications in addition to record release charts, rarity guides and a comprehensive bibliography and index. One would expect a compendium such as this to be dull and lifeless, but Sherman and Nauck's engaging style, attention to detail and brilliant label images make the story come alive. The entire book is profusely illustrated in resplendent full-color, and will be equally at home on the coffee table or the reference shelf. No archive or serious collector should be without it.