A very attractive early UK mono copy of Help! by The Beatles, featuring the desirable "Lark Music" publishing-credit variation on the classic yellow-and-black Parlophone label. This particular label variation is an interesting part of the album's original UK pressing history. The earliest 1965 mono copies credit "Act Naturally" on Side 2 to the abbreviated "Lark Mus.", but during subsequent production this wording was expanded to the fully written "Lark Music", as found on this example. The record retains the classic black-and-yellow Parlophone design with "THE GRAMOPHONE CO. LTD." perimeter text, "SOLD IN U.K. SUBJECT TO RESALE PRICE CONDITIONS, SEE PRICE LISTS" and the original (P) 1965 publishing statement. The -2/-2 matrix combination remained in use during this early production period and is documented on the "Lark Music" label variation. ⸻ Sleeve (VG+): The original Garrod & Lofthouse laminated sleeve remains complete and presentable. There is some age-related yellowing together with light creasing and general handling wear visible throughout. A small amount of black writing is present on the rear. Despite these cosmetic signs of age, the sleeve remains structurally solid and displays well overall → VG+ Vinyl (VG): The record retains a good original shine but shows clear signs of previous play, with visible playwear and some grey sheen across both sides. A number of superficial hairlines are present throughout. Importantly, there are no serious deep or feelable scratches. Playback is stronger than the visual appearance suggests and remains very enjoyable overall, approximately VG+ for audio → VG ⸻ Details * UK mono first pressing * Parlophone PMC 1255 * Black-and-yellow Parlophone labels * "Lark Music" label variation * Early -2/-2 matrices * Original EMI manufacturing codes * Made in Gt. Britain * Laminated Garrod & Lofthouse sleeve ⸻ Matrix / Stampers * Side 1: XEX 549-2 * Side 2: XEX 550-2 * Mother / Stampers: 5 ALO / 5 AHA