Anarchy In The U.K. (EMI 2566) – Rare Promo Single Analysis

Here We Go!

kicking off my Sex Pistols collection showcase with the single that started it all:

🎵 Anarchy in the U.K. (EMI 2566)

Today, I’m spotlighting a special version — a second pressing promotional copy with a “Factory Sample” sticker.

🧷 Basic Info

Title: Anarchy in the U.K.

Artist: Sex Pistols

Format: 7-inch Single (45 RPM)

Release Date: November 26, 1976

Label / Catalog No.: EMI 2566

Sleeve: Red EMI die-cut sleeve

💡 *RPM stands for revolutions per minute — the same unit used in engine speeds!

🧷 Tracks:

A-side: Anarchy in the U.K. (Produced by Chris Thomas)

B-side: I Wanna Be Me (Produced by Dave Goodman)

🧷 Pressing & Variation Details

✔️ Matrix Numbers (Runout Etchings):

1st Press: EMI 2566 A-1 / B-1

2nd Press: EMI 2566 A-1 / B-2

Some first pressings were already using the A1/B2 combo, probably due to a late-stage lacquer recut on the B-side.

💡 Collectors use matrix numbers to identify pressing versions — they’re etched near the label.

✔️ Label Differences:

Both pressings use a brown label with red EMI logo, but even among 2nd pressings, there are small differences in font and ink color.

✔️ Center Type:

This pressing uses a 4-prong push-out center — slightly rarer than the more common 3-prong type on EMI records.

✔️ Sleeve Differences:

1st Press: Usually came in a plain black sleeve

2nd Press: Came in the red EMI die-cut sleeve

Some early 1st pressings also ended up in red sleeves, possibly due to in-factory sleeve mixing.

🧷 Sound Quality:

Compared to the CD version, the vinyl has more punch and energy. Glen Matlock’s bass lines come through nicely.

💡 Fun fact: His bass was recorded on the right side of the studio using a Neumann U87 mic — famous for its rich depth and clarity.

🧷 Collector’s Notes:

The 1st press mistakenly credits Chris Thomas on both sides; the 2nd press fixes the B-side credit to Dave Goodman.

This particular copy includes a “Factory Sample – Not for Sale” sticker — meaning it was used for promotion (radio stations, reviewers, retailers).

I bought this for around ¥4,800 a few years ago… recently saw one listed online for ¥48,000! 😱
That’s a tenfold jump!

We don’t know how many promos were made, but they’re clearly rarer than the standard first pressing.

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🧷 Personal Memory

I still remember the thrill of finding this in a local record shop — my heart was pounding.

Online shopping just doesn’t compare to moments like that. ✨

🔜 Coming Next:

In the next post, we’ll look at another iconic single:

“God Save the Queen” — Virgin VS181 (1st pressing)

byebye 👋