Mint (M)

The record is brand new. There are no surface marks and no deterioration in regards to sound quality. Any extra items are accounted for and are also in perfect condition. This includes the cover. Extra items can also include booklets, lyric sheets and posters, among other things. These records will usually be listed as "never played" or "sealed". These usually sell for more and are more valuable to collectors.

Near Mint (NM or M-)

This record is almost perfect. There are no minor signs of wear and very minimal defects on the sleeve (cover), though there may be slight handling signs, such as finger smudges. The cover shouldn't have creases, seam splits or folds. This also holds true for any extra items. The items should be there and be in the same condition as the record and sleeve. In all honesty, these records should look as if they were newly purchased and just removed from their plastic covering. These sell for higher prices and are highly sought after by collectors.

Excellent (E)

The record has been played, but the sound is still great. There should not be surface marks or scratches, and the cover will have slight creasing or wear. The extra items are included and in the same condition as the cover. These still can sell for high prices and can still be collector's items, depending on the band.

Very Good Plus (VG+)

Generally the same as excellent, as these are interchangeable, though the VG+ rating may include records with slight warps that do not affect the sound.

Very Good (VG)

The record has been enjoyed many times but still has good sound quality. There may be slight surface marks that are noticeable and one or two light scratches. The cover has normal wear and tear from being used, as do the extra items; the extra items that were included with the original record should still be included for this rating. These records may sell for decent amounts and are usually collected, especially if they are rare or a favorite band.

Good (G)

The record has been played for years, and the sound quality is noticeably deteriorated. There may also be some distortion of the record itself and mild scratching. The cover and extra items are present but may have distinct folding lines, scuffed edges, discoloration, and splitting of the seams. The worth of the record starts to decrease with this good grade, but it may still be collected, especially if it is rare.

Fair (F)

The record has not been cared for properly; for example, it has been left out of its sleeve, has been dropped, or suffered other types of damage. The record is playable, but it will display a lot of surface noise (scratchy, warbled sound) and may even jump. The record itself will be warped and scratched; damage to the center may be very noticeable. The cover and contents are both accounted for, but they will be stained, torn, or even defaced (written on with ink, etc.) Generally, these records are not preferred for collections.

Poor (P)

The record does not play properly because there are deep scratches and bad surface noise. The record will be warped and may jump entire sections of the song. The cover and/or contents may be partly missing and will be severely damaged. Collectors do not generally seek these records - the only reason a record with a poor grade will be purchased is to complete a collection by a specific band; however, this type of record will lower the collection's overall value, and many feel it is better to have an incomplete collection than a poor quality record.

Bad (B)

The record is broken or does not play. The extra items included with the new record are completely missing, and the cover may be gone completely, as well. As with poor quality records, most collectors will not want these items unless they are interested in owning a complete set.