I use this grading system to describe all my hardcover books available in my
eBay store
Very
Fine (VF). Without faults or
defects, in the same condition as when it was published. (Note:
very few new books qualify for this grade, as there will often be rubs/scuffs to
the dust-jacket from shipping, or bumped lower spine ends/corners from
shelving.)
Fine
(F). Approaches the above,
but not crisp. May show signs of having been carefully read, but no real defects
or flaws.
Near
Fine (NF). Approaching Fine
but with a couple of defects which should be noted
Very
Good. Used book showing some small signs of wear on either the binding
or dust-jacket. Defects and faults should be noted
Good. Average used book that has all
pages present. All defects must be noted
Fair. Used book that has complete text
but may be missing end papers, half-title page, etc. Dust-jacket may have
noticeable signs of wear such as crimping, small tears, or curling on the edges.
All defects should be noted
Poor/Reading
Copy. Sufficiently worn that
its only merit is that it has the complete text. May be soiled, scuffed, stained
or spotted and may have loose joints, hinges, pages, etc. All defects should be
noted
Ex-Library. Must always be noted regardless of
books condition
Book
Club (BCE). Must always be
noted regardless of the books condition
Binding
Copy. A book in which the
text block is complete but the binding is lacking or in such poor condition that
it is beyond reasonable repair
Remainder Marks, Bookplates, Previous Owner's Name. Should always be noted
