In the second half of the 1960’s the Beatles remained phenomenally successful, but the most exciting rock group for avid rock fans was Cream. Clapton on guitar, Bruce on bass, and Baker on drums, were the best rock had to offer – The Encyclopedia of Rock, Pop and Soul by Irwin Stambler.
Cream White Mattes are rare, but none more than Wheels of Fire, which became the world’s first platinum selling double album. Released in July of 1968, certified RIAA gold 7/22/68, it reached a peak Billboard Chart position of #1. Here you see an Authentic, First-State, First Presentation RIAA White Matte.
Presented to Cream’s label Atco Records.
On the trail-off of authentic Atco gold presentation discs of the period, there was 1,000,000 etched at 6 o’clock, and an AT (for Atlantic Records) at 3 o’clock.
New York Frame and Picture Co., the only manufacturer of RIAA White Mattes, was located on Fulton Street, where this award was made, prior to 1969. From 1969 on they were located on John Street.
The backing paper and hanging are over forty five years old, and unopened, making this a First-State award.
I recommend all awards be kept in POLYETHYLENE bags for protection from bugs and the elements. This award is kept in an 18-1/4 x 26 2 mil POLYETHYLENE bag from Bags Unlimited.
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I don’t know everything about awards, no one does. But I’d be happy to answer questions on your awards, or direct you to someone who might. Please contact me, Jim jim@honormusicawards.com or 818 416-3770
