The picture or pictures are of the record or sleeve (I do not use stock pictures). I do not grade any record as Mint; If the original cover is not present,the record will be sent in cardboard sleeve. Grading is carried out using a bright light but where a scratch etc is present I do test to see if there is any obvious effect on the sound quality.

EX+ The Record is appears perfect with no damage visible even under bright light.

EX  The record may have shown fine lines under bright light.

EX- Light surface markings but no effect on sound reproduction.

VG+ The record shows signs of use but no effect on sound quality.

VG  Record has had a lot of play and may have surface marks and some light scratches but plays without major sound quality loss.

I do not sell records which I grade at less than VG and for this reason I grade the covers/sleeves separately for those that want the record and the cover is of secondary or no importance.

EX Cover has no damage.

EX- Cover may have light creasing or foxing.

VG  Light creasing and/or fraying and/or ringwear/small label or label marks

G    Folding and/or small tears and/or splits/large labels or large label marks

P   Cover is soiled and/or torn and/or incomplete

N   No cover present