Shellac phonodiscs are what we’re thinking about when we think of the commercially released 78 rpm record. They typically range in size from 7″ to 10″ (although 12″ and 16″ are possible too) and date from the late 1890s to the 1950s. Read more about phonodiscs here.
Notes/Considerations
Shellac discs are heavy, don’t flex, and can break easily. Shellac phonodiscs should be stored upright without excessive leaning in the box (only allow a finger’s width of space, allowing you to see the label without having to remove every disc). Label the archival box with a THIS END UP label to prevent them accidentally being stored on their side. ID labels should be placed on the upper corner of the face of the disc jacket.
At-Minimum Housing
n/a
Typical Housing
House discs upright in specialty boxes without leaning. Label the box THIS END UP to prevent them being shelved on their side. Store in room temperature or cool storage. Do not store in the freezer.
High-End Housing
Use archival sleeves for discs and house next to disc jackets. House discs in specialty boxes without leaning. Store in room temperature or cool storage. Do not store in the freezer.
