General Information Artist: AC/DC Album: Back in Black Release Date: 1980 Label: Atlantic (SD 16018) Country: USA Format: Vinyl, LP, Album Edition: First US Pressing. This is the authentic 1980 original release featuring the iconic embossed (raised) lettering for both the "AC/DC" logo and the "Back in Black" title on the front cover. Description History: Released as a tribute to the band's late frontman Bon Scott, this was the first album featuring Brian Johnson. It became a cultural phenomenon and remains one of the best-selling albums in music history. The minimalist black cover was chosen by the band as a sign of mourning. Key Features: Unlike later flat-printed reissues, this original pressing has a textured, embossed sleeve. This specific copy features a rare vintage "Crazy Eddie Record & Tape Asylum" store sticker on the front, adding unique provenance from the legendary NYC retailer. Condition Cover: Factory-sealed, never opened. The delicate matte black cover is well-preserved. There is light shelf wear and minor creasing around the edges, but the embossing remains sharp and prominent. Vinyl: Presumed MINT (unplayed) Notes for collectors First Pressing Identification: This version is identified by the SD 16018 catalog number and the raised texture of the sleeve. Value: Original 1980 copies in this condition are increasingly sought after by collectors, especially those with unique period-correct store stickers like "Crazy Eddie," which confirm the record's history and era. Differences: Later reissues often dropped the embossing to save on production costs or moved to different catalog sequences (like the E1 series). Matrix / Labels Side A: ST-A-804517 [Check your runout groove for suffixes like -SP or -MO] Side B: ST-A-804518 Label: Atlantic (SD 16018). ST-A-804517-AR / ST-A-804518-AR. “MFG BY ATLANTIC RECORDING CORP., 75 ROCKEFELLER PLAZA, N.Y., N.Y.”