N  As new and unplayed (there are virtually no 78s that can categorically be claimed to be unplayed).

N- Nearly Mint, but has been played. No visible signs of wear or damage.

E+ Plays like new, with very, very few signs of handling, such as tiny scuffs from being slipped in and out of jackets.

E  Still very shiny, near new looking, with no visible signs of wear, but a few inaudible scuffs and scratches.

E-  Still shiny but without the luster of a new record, few light scratches. 

V+ Is an average condition 78 in which scuffs and general use has dulled the finish somewhat. Wear is moderate but playing is generally free from distortion. Surface noise not overly pronounced..

V Moderate, even wear throughout, but still very playable. Surface noise and scratches are audible but not intrusive.

V- Quite playable still, but distortion and heavy greying in loud passages. Music remains loud in most passages. Surface noise and scratches well below music level.

G+ Grey throughout but still serviceable. Music begins to sound muffled. Heavy scratches.

G  Quite seriously worn and scratched, but music level is still higher than surface noise.

G- Music still prominent, but wear and scatch damage extensive.

F Most of music remains audible over surface noise, but listening now uncomfortable.

P (78). Unplayable.

Abbreviations

sfc = surface; lbl = label; nap = not affecting play; scr/scrs = scratch/scratches; lc or lam  = lamination crack; cr = crack; gv/gvs = groove/grooves; hlc/hc = hairline crack; wol = writing on label; sol = sticker on label; fade = faded label; gr/grs = groove/grooves; eb = edge bite; ec = edge chip; ef = edge flake; cvr = cover; s = stereo; rc= rim chip; rf = rough; aud/inaud = audible/inaudible; lt = light.