An extraordinary RIAA Gold Record Award for The Beatles Abbey Road, presented on behalf of The Beatles to the RIAA itself–the Recording Industry Association of America (the music business trade association that certifies Gold and Platinum record awards.)  We acquired this directly from former RIAA executive director Jim Fishel, who’s accompanying letter of authenticity notes:

This letter is to authenticate the provenance of the following item: An original gold record of The Beatles “Abbey Road” presented to the RIAA (Recording Industry Association of America).  It was displayed in my RIAA office for nearly seven years.

The award was made for the RIAA with the approval of the three living Beatles members (John Lennon having passed away several years earlier) at the request of Apple Corps’ then-head Neil Aspinall, in recognition of the anti-piracy work done by the RIAA on the Beatles’ behalf.

When I left my term as the association’s executive director in 1989, this was given to me as a farewell gift.  I have had it in my personal possession since then, and recently sold it to Recordmecca. 

The RIAA was and is the organization responsible for certifying and licensing Gold and Platinum record awards.  Unlike many ‘fake’ awards manufactured to take advantage of marketplace demand, this is the real thing.

(Signed) Jim Fishel

Neil Aspinall was The Beatles lifelong friend and road manager.  Fishel explained he was very grateful to the RIAA for it’s work on behalf of The Beatles and at his request The Beatles authorized the presentation of this award to the organization.  We know of no other Beatles awards presented to the RIAA, nor any RIAA presented awards to have been offered on the market.

With Jim Fishel’s letter of authenticity, and Recordmecca’s written lifetime guarantee of authenticity.  In excellent condition, with the usual minimal wear/scuffing.  The backing paper has been replaced, but the award is otherwise completely original.  16 3/4″ x 20 5/8″.