In order to assist everyone who buys and sells rare discs, Record Collector magazine has originated a set of standards for the condition of
second-hand records, cassettes and CDs. The seven standard condition categories, and a description of what each one means, are listed below:
MINT (M): 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 (EX): 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 (VG): 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 (G): 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, discoloration, etc.
FAIR (F): 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 (P): 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 (B): The record is unplayable or might even be broken, and is only of use as a collection-filler.
Grading can be fine tuned by adding + or - ie: VG+ is better than VG but not up to EX. MINT- is better than EX but not up to Unplayed/MINT grade.
As a rule sleeves are graded first ie: EX+ (sleeve)/MINT- (disc).
Abbreviations (S)WOS..(small) writing on sleeve. (L)WOL..(large) writing on label. TOS/L..tear on sleeve/label. |
