What do the condition categories mean ? MINT

The record itself is in brand new condition with no surface marks or deterioration in sound quality. The cover and any extra items such as the lyric sheet, booklet or poster are in perfect condition. Records advertised as Sealed or Unplayed should be Mint.  

EXCELLENT

The record shows some signs of having been played, but there is very little lessening in sound quality. The cover and  packaging might have slight wear and/or creasing.  

VERY GOOD

The record has obviously been played many times, but displays no major deterioration in sound quality, despite noticeable surface marks and the occasional light scratch. Normal wear and tear on the cover or extra items, without any major defects, is acceptable.  

GOOD

The record has been played so much that the sound quality has noticeably deteriorated, perhaps with some distortion and mild scratches. The cover and contents suffer from folding, scuffing of edges, spine splits, discolouration, etc.  

FAIR

The record is still just playable but has not been cared for properly and displays considerable surface noise; it may even jump. The cover and contents will be torn, stained and/or defaced.  

POOR

The record will not play properly due to scratches, bad surface noise, etc. The cover and contents will be badly damaged or partly missing.  

BAD

The record is unplayable or might even be broken, and is only of use as a collection-filler.

These gradings are taken from the "RECORD COLLECTOR RARE RECORD PRICE GUIDE (UK)" 

( RECORD COLLECTOR MAGAZINE )