WHO

1965 original UK Silver Disc award presented to the song's producer — the late Shel Talmy — from Decca Records for British sales of over 250,000 copies. The approximate date of the award is late 1965 or early 1966. The design and text inscription on the label area of the disc is typical of a vintage British sales award, as seen on those for The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, etc. Until the establishment of the BPI (British Phonographic Industry) in 1973, such awards were created by the UK record company in question.

Sheldon Talmy was an American record producer who worked in England in the 1960s. He produced many singles and albums by The Who, The Kinks, The Creation, The Easybeats, David Bowie.

"My Generation" was released as a single in the UK on October 29th, 1965. It reached No. 2 on the charts, making it the highest-charting 45 in The Who's home country along with "I'm A Boy". Unfortunately, in the USA "My Generation" only reached No. 74 on the Billboard Hot 100. Hence, there are no US RIAA gold record awards for this single. Actually, this UK Silver Disc might be the only official award issued by any record company for this single anywhere in the world.

This is rather surprising considering just how important and influential this song has become in subsequent years. In 2022, Rolling Stone magazine ranked the song No. 3 on their list of the 50 greatest Who songs. It has received many other accolades over the decades as well, becoming a touchstone within rock and roll itself. Besides being an anthem for youth — and one of the Who's most famous songs — it is considered a precursor to the punk rock movement.

The only award for this title that would possibly be better than this would be one awarded to a band member, and none of those have ever surfaced for public sale or auction. This award measures 11.25" x 11.75" with a wooden frame and a blue velvet background. Mounted under glass is an actual metal master for this 45 (Brunswick 05944). The matrix number is clearly visible as "45-116675-6C". The back of the award has its original hooks and wire hanger. It also has a folding easel for display on a desk or table. As far as we can tell, it appears that the award is 100% original and has never been opened or restored. Condition is excellent, with just some minor stains and scratches in the frame.

This amazing piece of Who memorabilia is being sold on consignment for the Talmy Estate.