Unique and historic, this is a label award (i.e. non-RIAA) celebrating The Troggs "Wild Thing" going to #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in summer 1966.
British garage rockers The Troggs released their version of the track (which was written by American songwriter Chip Taylor) after it had failed to gain traction when released by American rock band Wild Ones in 1965. In 2006, Rolling Stone ranked the tune #257 on its list of The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time.
While we can't pretend to know the exact age of this piece or who owned it over the years, a close inspection of its components shows it to be all original, including the now-brittle backing paper and original framing company sticker. It also supports the most likely scenario, which is that this was produced by the Fontana label or possibly the artist's management in 1966 to celebrate the song's #1 position.
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Item Highlights:
- Record company or artist management award for The Troggs "Wild Thing" in all original condition (Note: Not an RIAA award)
- Components and condition are consistent with it being 53 years old (although we do not know the exact age)
- In Very Good condition with a few scratches on frame, minor mars on the plexiglas, some fading of the matte and tears in the backing paper
- Engraved inscription reads: "Wild Thing" Number One Record In The Nation, July 1966
- Appears to have original backing paper and framing co. sticker "Jules Jaffe Advertising Specialties, Chicago, IL"
- Award measures 15" x 17"
- Cool, historic collectors item
- FREE insured shipping to continental U.S.
- International shipping available
Interested in knowing more about record awards? Read our detailed article here.
Notes on the condition of all vintage record awards like this one: Please do not buy this item if you want a brand new piece of memorabilia. These are historical artifacts from the year they were produced. As a result they may show signs of wear. Frankly, if you see a 20 to 50-year-old award purported to be in 100% perfect condition, it might be too good to be true. After all, an antique should have "good' wear. If not, you might want to question the piece.
As to where they came from, they could have been displayed in record label offices, recording studios, artist manager's offices, radio stations, private collector's homes and yes, of course, possibly the artist's or songwriter's home. Typically, we don't know all the places they may have been over the years other than what we've stated in the description.
Finally, a word on photos: Our photos are zoomable so you can get a very good look. Do let us know if you want photos of any other details on our pieces and we'll be happy to provide.