XTC Science Friction (Quite possibly the rarest UK 7" picture sleeve from the New Wave/Punk genre (or any other genre come to think of it). Originally released in 1977 on the Virgin label, the 7" picture sleeve for reasons still not completely clear was immediately withdrawn despite the commercial release going ahead, in both 7" format and 12" vinyl in a very similar sleeve design! Who knows how many of these actually got out but it's a mere handful. The Pistols A&M comes up for sale far more often than this and while there's not a comparison in the collectibilty/notoriety between the bands, it shows how few are around. Procured from the hands of a long standing private collector/collection, this 100% genuine article has the raised serrated edge around the label, 'VS181-A-1' hand scratched in the matrix on Side A and 'VS188-B1' machine stamped on side B. On to the more important matter of the thin paper picture sleeve - whilst not mint, it is in pretty stunning condition, especially given its rarity. It has 'dp Delga Press Limited' and the catalogue number of 'VS 188' on the top flipback and the Virgin P&C information on the bottom flipback. The mainly white background is still clear and unfaded with the red and green colouring and 3D design on the back still vibrant, with just some very light signs of wear and tear on the opening edge but overall it's remarkably strong for its thirty five year existence. The chances of ever seeing another copy as good as this one are about zero...)