The Warhol-designed peel cover

The 1967 Verve Records LP The Velvet Underground & Nico features a banana on the cover designed by Andy Warhol. On the original first-issue stereo and mono pressings, the banana sticker is genuinely peelable — lifting it reveals a flesh-coloured banana underneath. Later pressings printed the banana as a static image without the peel feature.

Which pressing has the peel

First-issue stereo and mono pressings (1967, with V/V6-5008 catalogue numbers) have the peelable banana. Copies with the peel still attached and undisturbed are scarcer than copies where the peel has been removed or partially lifted. Original shrinkwrap on a sealed copy with intact peel is the apex collector grade.

Other early-pressing details

The original release also includes the so-called “torso cover” (a small upside-down image of a torso behind the banana on the back cover) which was airbrushed out on subsequent pressings due to a likeness dispute. First pressings with the visible torso are the most valuable variant. Reference discographies confirm the catalogue and matrix numbers required for first-pressing status.

About This collectible

The Velvet Underground & Nico (Banana Peel Cover, 1967) is a notable entry in the collectible category. Whether you are a seasoned collector or evaluating your first piece, understanding provenance, condition, and market context is essential for confident decisions. This guide summarizes what makes this item collectible and how to evaluate examples in the market.

Identification & Authentication

Authenticating a Velvet Underground & Nico (Banana Peel Cover, 1967) requires attention to period-correct materials, manufacturing marks, signatures, and chain of custody documentation. Where third-party authentication exists (PSA, JSA, Beckett, SGC, PCGS, NGC, or category-specific authenticators), graded examples carry significant premium over raw pieces. Consult a recognized authenticator before high-value purchases.

Valuation & Market Pricing

Values for the Velvet Underground & Nico (Banana Peel Cover, 1967) vary by condition, provenance, completeness, and demand. Track recent sold prices on major venues including Heritage Auctions, Goldin, Christie’s, Sotheby’s, and eBay completed listings to benchmark fair market value. Realized sales reflect true value; asking prices do not.

Condition & Grading

Condition is the largest variable affecting value. Use the grading scale appropriate to the category and document defects honestly. For graded items, verify certification numbers on the grader’s website. For raw items, photograph all surfaces under neutral lighting and disclose any restoration or imperfections.

Where to Buy & Sell

Reputable venues include major auction houses, established dealer networks, specialty shows, and vetted online marketplaces. Avoid private cash transactions with unknown parties for high-value pieces. Use buyer protection or escrow when transacting at scale.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my Velvet Underground & Nico (Banana Peel Cover, 1967) is authentic?

Authenticity is best confirmed by a recognized third-party authenticator. Visual inspection alone is rarely sufficient for high-value pieces.

What is a Velvet Underground & Nico (Banana Peel Cover, 1967) worth?

Value depends on condition, provenance, and completeness. Check recent sold prices on major auction venues for comparable examples.

Where should I sell my Velvet Underground & Nico (Banana Peel Cover, 1967)?

For high-value pieces, established auction houses with category expertise typically deliver the best results. For mid-market items, vetted online marketplaces or dealer networks balance reach and fees.

Does grading add value?

For most categories, third-party grading adds meaningful value to top-condition examples. For lower-grade pieces, the grading fee can exceed the value uplift.