Records Grading

Mint (M)

Absolutely perfect in every way. Certainly never been played, still sealed.

Near Mint (NM or M-)

A nearly perfect record. A NM or M- record has more than likely never been played, and the vinyl will play perfectly, with no imperfections during playback.

Very Good Plus (VG+)

A Very Good Plus record will show some signs that it was played and otherwise handled by a previous owner who took good care of it. Defects should be more of a cosmetic nature, not affecting the actual playback as a whole. Record surfaces may show some signs of wear and may have slight scuffs or very light scratches that don't affect one's listening experiences. The label may have some ring wear or discoloration, but it should be barely noticeable. Spindle marks may be present.

Very Good (VG)

Surface noise will be evident upon playing, especially in soft passages and during a song's intro and fade, but will not overpower the music otherwise. Groove wear will start to be noticeable, as with light scratches (deep enough to feel with a fingernail) that will affect the sound. Labels may be marred by writing, or have tape or stickers (or their residue) attached.

Good Plus (G+), Good (G)

A record in Good or Good Plus condition can be played through without skipping. But it will have significant surface noise, scratches, and visible groove wear.

Poor (P), Fair (F)

The record is cracked, badly warped, and won't play through without skipping or repeating.

Cover and Inner Sleeves Grading

Mint (M)

Absolutely perfect in every way, still sealed.

Near Mint (NM or M-)

Show no obvious signs of wear, no creases, folds, seam splits, cut-out holes, or other noticeable similar defects.

Very Good Plus (VG+)

Picture sleeves and inner sleeves may have some slight wear, slightly turned-up corners, or a slight seam split. An LP cover may have slight signs of wear, and may be marred by a cut-out hole, indentation, or cut corner.

Very Good (VG)

Labels, covers, and sleeves may be marred by writing or have tape, stickers, and residue attached.

Good Plus (G+), Good (G)

A cover or sleeve will have seam splits, especially at the bottom or on the spine.

Poor (P), Fair (F)

The picture sleeve is water damaged, split on all three seams and heavily marred by wear and writing. The LP cover barely keeps the LP inside it. Inner sleeves are fully split, crinkled, and written upon.