[78-L] Columbia LP "5" prefix ???

[Thomas Stern]

I've noticed a number of COLUMBIA LPs which have a

star with the number "5" on the jacket, near the catalogue number.

Just noticed an album which actually incorporates the

5 in the catalogue number:  the cast album of

Cole Porter's "OUT OF THIS WORLD"

issued on 78's as MM-980, on LP as ML-54390, 

reissued as OL-4390 according to

an Sondheim online database, and copies at auction/sale sites.

The CSP reissues use the 4390 number (COL or CML prefix).

 

WHAT is the significance of the "5" star on Columbia albums?

Was the Porter album ever issued as ML-4390 ??

Thanks!

Best wishes, Thomas.