Are 45 Records Still Worth Money in 2025? Chicago Collectors Weigh In
The Harsh Truth About the 45 Market
If you’ve ever looked at a box of old 45s and wondered if you’re sitting on gold, you’re not alone. Every week, we hear from people across Chicago who just rediscovered stacks of 7-inch singles in their basements, closets, or attics — and they’re curious what they’re worth.
The honest answer?
In 2025, about 99% of 45s have no real resale value.
That might sound discouraging, but it’s actually been true for decades. The vast majority of 45s — the big radio hits and Top 40 singles by major artists — were pressed in the millions. Those copies still circulate everywhere today, and demand for them is virtually zero. You might have loved that Elvis or Elton John single back in the day, but every collector already owns ten copies.
Where things get interesting is in the other 1%.
The Obscure 1% Keeps Getting Hotter
That tiny slice of the market — the truly obscure, privately pressed, or regionally released 45s — continues to climb in value.
Right now, the fastest-moving records in our world are:
Northern Soul and modern soul 45s — especially private press or small-label releases.
Gospel records that sound secular, often with funky or soulful arrangements.
Super rare punk singles and DIY post-punk or new wave titles.
Reggae and Latin 45s with strong grooves or crossover appeal.
Collectors and DJs, especially from overseas, are still chasing that unique sound you can’t find on streaming platforms. These 45s — once sold for pocket change — can now command hundreds or even thousands of dollars when the right title turns up.
Why You Shouldn’t Try to Sort or Clean Them Yourself
When someone in the Chicago area calls us about selling 45s, the first thing we say is simple:
👉 Don’t clean them, don’t sort them, and don’t throw anything out.
Here’s why:
Most sellers have no way of knowing which 45s matter. They’ll often think the familiar titles are valuable (they’re not), and they’ll accidentally toss or damage the rare ones that actually are.
At We Buy Records Chicago, Brian and I can scan through thousands of 45s in just a few minutes and instantly spot the handful that have collector demand. We’ll make a strong cash offer on those valuable titles, and then help you decide what to do with the rest — whether that’s donation, recycling, or storage.
So even if you think your box is “just a bunch of old 45s,” don’t assume it’s worthless. There’s always a chance that one or two gems are hiding inside.
Ready to Find Out What Yours Are Worth?
If you’re in Chicago or the suburbs, we’re always happy to take a look.
You can:
📞 Call (312) 500-4546 or
💬 Text photos to (630) 544-9733
We buy 45 collections of all sizes — from one crate to entire estates — and we travel anywhere in the metro area.
Learn more about our process on We Buy 45s
Visit our Chicago homepage for details on how local pickups work