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Very scarce 12 inch early Victor "PATTI" Record. Born in 1843, Adelina Patti was 61 years old in 1904 and well past her prime as an opera singer. However, Victor honored her with this short-lived 'celebrity' label. These records were crazy expensive for their time and relatively few were sold and not many survive today.

Imagine paying $5 for just one record in 1904 when you could buy a brand new Victor Type R (Royal) Talking Machine for just $15! That's about $141 (in today's dollars) for one phonograph record.

This is in nice overall condition with scattered scratches and scuffs. PM with interest. USPS Media mail is extra. Packaged very securely.

Thanks,
Doug

Despite the date on the reverse of this disc, it cannot date as early as 1904. Patti's first recording contract was with G&T and was dated 23rd November 1905.

Her first recording session took place at her Welsh home, Craig-y-Nos Castle, between 4th and 7th December 1905. The second and last session took place in June 1906.

"Old Folks at Home" Matrix No.540f is from the 1905 session and was issued as G&T/HMV 03054 and Victor 95033. According to Patti's biographer John Frederick Cone ("Adelina Patti, Queen of Hearts" Scolar Press ISBN 1-85928-004-8) the correct playing speed is 74.23rpm.