IRON MAIDEN Sanctuary Vinyl Record 7 Inch EMI 1980 A Label Demo Pressing Single Censored Pic Sleeve

Iron Maiden - Sanctuary
(Scarce Original UK 'A' Label Demo Pressing with gradiated black to grey paper labels that have 'Eddie' on the right and a lamppost in the centre. 4-Pronged Label Design. Housed in Censored Picture Sleeve. A-1/B-2 Matrix)

Format: Vinyl Record - 7 Inch Single (45 rpm)
Country: UK
Year: 1980
Label: EMI
Catalogue No. EMI 5065

Matrix / Runout (Side A, runout, stamped): EMI 5065 A-1 1 G
Matrix / Runout (Side B, runout, stamped): EMI 5065 B-2 1 G

Condition: VG+/EX (Sleeve is in clean condition. It has some minor wear at edges. The vinyl is in excellent clean condition)

Side A:
1. Sanctuary
Side B:
1. Drifter (Live)
2. I've Got The Fire (Live)

This is a premier, investment-grade holy grail for NWOBHM purists: a scarce original 1980 UK 'A' Label promo demonstration pressing of Iron Maiden's second single, "Sanctuary", issued by EMI Records. This coveted 7-inch release stands out instantly due to its graduated black-to-grey paper labels, featuring striking white and red text, the central lamppost graphic, and mascot 'Eddie' on the right. This record is safely housed inside the highly controversial censored picture sleeve, which features Eddie standing over the body of Margaret Thatcher. This initial release caused an absolute stir due to the portrayal of Thatcher being knifed by Eddie, leading to all subsequent issues having her eyes blacked out.

This copy is housed in the top-opening flip-back sleeve with a thumb-cut, remaining in clean VG+ condition with minor edge wear. The vinyl features the earliest definitive A-1 and B-2 matrix stamps (EMI 5065 A-1 1 G / EMI 5065 B-2 1 G), confirming its authenticity as an elite promotional artefact from the dawn of the band's global dominance. The music delivers raw power, pairing the studio cut of the title track on Side A with blistering live renditions of "Drifter" and "I've Got The Fire" on Side B, both captured live at London's iconic Marquee Club on April 3, 1980.

The vinyl disc itself is in stunning, excellent clean condition, retaining its original gloss and offering superb audio fidelity. This represents a foundational addition for any serious worldwide Iron Maiden collector, offering unmatched long-term investment potential and authentic heavy metal heritage.