Few records in music history carry the same mystique as The Black Album by Prince. Originally scheduled for release in 1987 and then abruptly withdrawn, this album has become one of the most valuable and sought-after vinyl records in the world, significantly contributing to its Prince Black Album value. Understanding its Prince Black Album value is essential for collectors and fans alike.
Today, original copies regularly sell for €15 000+, making it a prime example of how rarity, controversy, and artist intent can drive extreme collector demand.
Understanding its Prince Black Album value is essential for collectors and fans alike.
What Is Prince’s Black Album?
The Black Album was intended as a darker, funk-heavy follow-up to Sign o’ the Times. Unlike Prince’s more commercial releases, this record featured:
- A completely black, textless sleeve
- Raw, stripped-down production
- A heavier, club-oriented sound
However, just days before release, Prince made an unprecedented decision that would change the album’s legacy forever.
Why Is The Black Album So Rare?
Last-Minute Recall (Primary Value Driver)
In December 1987, Prince ordered the label to pull the album immediately.
As a result:
- Most pressings were destroyed
- Only a small number of promo copies survived
- A few copies leaked into circulation
This created instant scarcity — the single biggest factor behind its value.
Bootleg Explosion Increased Demand
After the recall:
- Bootleg versions flooded the market
- The album became widely circulated unofficially
Paradoxically, this increased the legend of the original pressing, making authentic copies even more desirable.
1994 Official Release (Lower Value)
Prince later allowed an official release in 1994, but:
- These copies are not rare
- They sell for a fraction of the price
- Collectors overwhelmingly prefer the 1987 original pressing
Prince Black Album Price History
Based on sales data from Discogs:
https://www.discogs.com/sell/release/2031147
You may also buy it on Ebay:
Historical Price Trends
- Early 1990s: €100 – €300
- 2000–2010: €300 – €1,200
- 2010–2020: €1,200 – €3,000
- 2020–2025: €3000 – €15 000+
Current Value (2026)
- Median price: €2,000 – €3,500
- High-end sales: €5,000 – €15,000+
- Mint condition copies: €40 000+
Prices depend heavily on condition, authenticity, and pressing details.
What Makes This Record So Valuable?
1. Extreme Scarcity
Very few original 1987 copies exist, especially in high-grade condition.
2. Artist-Driven Recall
Unlike most rare records, this one was pulled by the artist himself, adding a unique narrative.
3. Cultural & Collector Status
It is widely considered:
- One of the most famous unreleased (then released) albums
- A “holy grail” among vinyl collectors
- A key piece of Prince’s legacy
How to Identify an Original Black Album (Avoid Fakes)
Because of its value, this record is heavily counterfeited.
Key things to check:
- Matrix / runout numbers (match verified listings)
- Correct 1987 pressing details
- Label and vinyl quality
- Provenance or seller credibility
Always compare with verified listings on Discogs before buying.
Is The Black Album a Good Investment?
From a collector’s standpoint, this record is considered:
- A blue-chip vinyl asset
- Historically stable in value
- Globally recognized among collectors
While no collectible is risk-free, The Black Album has shown consistent long-term appreciation.
| Artist: | Prince |
| Album: | The Black Album |
| Type: | Withdrawn |
| Country: | Europe |
| Released: | 1987 |
| Genre: | Hip Hop, Jazz, Funk / Soul |
| Label: | Warner Bros. Records – 925 677-1, Warner Bros. Records – WX 147, Warner Bros. Records – WX147 |