We use the GOLDMINE STANDARD GRADING system to grade the actual vinyl record separately from the cover, sleeve, and any other inserts (if included), such as posters, liner notes, etc. We first visually inspect the vinyl, and anything below an “NM” visual grading is then audibly spot checked around any areas that visually look worn and/or damaged. We then grade from an audible standpoint to give a more accurate playability grading. Grading scale summary is as follows:
Mint (M)
Near Mint (NM or M-)
Very Good Plus (VG+)
Very Good (VG)
Good (G), Good Plus (G+)
Poor (P), Fair (F)