On the Record: Sex Pistols - God Save The Queen (7” Single, 1977, A&M Records)

Background & Release The Sex Pistols' "God Save The Queen" is one of the most notorious punk rock singles ever released, and its history is as chaotic as the band itself. Originally recorded and pressed by A&M Records in March 1977, the single was intended to be a direct assault on the British establishment, coinciding with Queen Elizabeth II’s Silver Jubilee. However, the relationship between the Sex Pistols and A&M quickly disintegrated. Within just six days of signing the band, A&M's management, alarmed by the group’s behavior and the negative press surrounding them, decided to terminate the contract and destroy nearly all copies of the record.

Rarity & Collectability Before the destruction, approximately 25,000 copies of the single were pressed, but only a handful survived, making the A&M version of "God Save The Queen" one of the rarest records in existence. Today, it's believed that only nine copies remain, making it a "holy grail" for collectors. These surviving copies are distinguished by their serrated anti-slip edges and the catalog number AMS 7284. The record features "God Save The Queen" on the A-side and "No Feelings" on the B-side.

The value of these records has skyrocketed over the years. In recent auctions, the A&M pressing of "God Save The Queen" has fetched prices between £13,000 and £16,450, with some copies selling for even higher depending on their condition and provenance. This rarity and the record's association with the Sex Pistols' anti-establishment ethos contribute to its legendary status.

Cultural Impact "God Save The Queen" became an anthem of rebellion and a symbol of the punk movement, challenging the social and political norms of the time. The song’s lyrics and the controversy surrounding its release solidified the Sex Pistols' place in music history as provocateurs who changed the landscape of rock music forever.

Despite being banned by the BBC and many commercial radio stations, the single charted at number two on the UK Singles Chart, with some claiming it was deliberately kept off the top spot to avoid further controversy during the Queen's Jubilee celebrations.

Conclusion The A&M pressing of the Sex Pistols' "God Save The Queen" is not just a rare collectible but a piece of music history that encapsulates the raw energy and rebellious spirit of punk rock. Its scarcity, combined with its cultural significance, makes it one of the most sought-after records in the world.

Current Market Given its rarity and the ongoing demand, this record continues to be a significant investment piece for serious collectors, with prices only expected to rise as the years go by.

This record is not just a collector's item but a relic of a time when music had the power to shake the foundations of society. If you ever come across a genuine copy, you hold in your hands one of the rarest and most valuable pieces of vinyl in the world