An OBI strip (帯, meaning "sash" or "belt" in Japanese) is a paper band that wraps around the spine of vinyl records and CDs released in Japan. It typically displays the album title and artist name in Japanese, the catalog number, retail price, a brief description, and often a marketing tagline. OBI strips are a uniquely Japanese packaging tradition that originated in the early days of Japan's domestic record industry.
Japanese pressings with intact OBI strips are among the most collectible records in the world. Japan's pressing plants (particularly JVC/Victor and Toshiba-EMI) were renowned for their exceptional quality control, and Japanese editions often featured unique mastering, bonus tracks, or exclusive artwork not available in other territories. The OBI strip serves as proof that the record is an authentic Japanese pressing.
OBI strips are fragile and often discarded, making records with original OBIs significantly more valuable — sometimes 2-5x the price of the same pressing without one. For collectors, OBI condition matters: look for tears, creases, fading, and price sticker residue. Store OBIs carefully — some collectors remove them and store them flat, while others keep them on the sleeve inside a protective outer bag.
The most valuable OBI strips are from 1960s-70s Japanese pressings of Western rock albums. A Beatles "Abbey Road" with original OBI can sell for $1,000+ even in VG+ condition.