Most Valuable Heavy Metal Records Worth Money
While heavy metal may have started as a rebellion, it’s now one of the most collectible genres in vinyl history. From early Chicago private-press LPs to UK test pressings and uncut picture discs, metal collectors are paying serious money for clean, original copies of certain titles. Here are a few standout examples that routinely sell for over a thousand dollars — and sometimes much more.
Private-Press U.S. Metal Grails
Paradoxx – Plan of Attack (1985, Warzowl Flames of Hell)
Chicago-area private pressing, long considered a Midwest metal grail. Original copies typically bring $1,000–$2,000 depending on condition — a genuine underground piece of local history.
Amethyst – Outside of Nowhere (1981, Chicago Pacific)
Another Chicago-pressed rarity with a loyal collector base. Clean copies often fetch $1,000–$1,800 and are highly sought after by serious collectors and DJs alike.
Wyzard – Future Knights (1983, San Antonio Private Label)
Cult-level Texas metal with serious collector demand. Expect $1,200–$1,800 for original pressings in top shape.
Liquid Earth – Molten Rock (1984, Co-Op)
Little-known U.S. band whose private-press LP has become a hidden gem. Clean copies command $1,000–$1,500.
UK & European NWOBHM Rarities
Holocaust – Pile Driver 12″ (1979, Pile Driver Records)
A cornerstone of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal. Pre-major label release valued around $1,200–$1,700.
Stormqueen – Stormqueen (1982, Private UK Press)
One of the rarest NWOBHM singles, issued in very small numbers. Typically sells for $700–$900.
Messiah – Going Insane (1985, Private Swiss Press)
Obscure European Christian metal LP that has developed cult demand, often bringing $1,000–$1,200.
Major-Label Test Pressings & Picture Discs
Iron Maiden – The Trooper 7″ Uncut Picture Disc (1983, EMI UK)
Prototype picture disc never released commercially — collectors pay $2,000–$2,500 for authentic examples.
Dio – DIOP 710 Rare Uncut EP (1986, Vertigo UK)
Rare uncut picture disc pressing of the promotional EP. Value generally falls between $900–$1,100.
AC/DC – Who Made Who Uncut Picture Disc (1986, Atlantic UK)
Hard-to-find promo-only pressing that appeals to both AC/DC and metal collectors — typically worth $700–$850.
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