MINT-Perfect, Flawless. You will seldom see me grade records mint(only sealed records)

 

NEAR MINT-Usually the highest grade, plays like new.  No marks, scuffs or scratches on the record. The cover should be in like new condition with little or no wear.

EXCELLENT-Almost like new, maybe a mark or two on the record, but it should still sound like new. Vinyl looks shiny and clean. Dynamics, Clarity and Fidelity should all be excellent on the vinyl. The cover may have some wear, but certainly no ring wear or major marks or damage on the cover. Most collector examples.

VERY GOOD +  A Beautiful Album, Some wear on the record. Some marks, scuffs or light surface scratches, certainly no skips or constant ticks when playing. Fidelity and Dynamics should be excellent. The cover can have some light wear, ring wear or bruised corners.

Very Good Well worn record, has scratches, "ticks" and surface noise.  Will play with fidelity, but background noise will be present.

Cover has ring wear, seam splits, and writing sometimes.

 

Good Lots of wear to the record, skips and scratches are certain. Deeper scuffs are present. A record that has seen better days! Record still plays, but gone is the fidelity and dynamics that make vinyl magical.  Not a cover you would want to frame. Only to be bought to sustain a need until a better example is found.