A used record, like any other collectible, can be graded to provide an accurate description of its condition. On this page you will learn how records are graded, and what abbreviations are used in descriptions to keep the amount of text at a minimum.
All records on our lists are graded by visual standards. It would be impossible to play grade all the records we have in stock (30,000+). We have been selling records by mail since 1989. Our confidence in accurate grading allows us to make a money back guarantee, if a buyer is not satisfied with our description of a Record they have purchased. In Part One of this page is a description of Record Grading. In Part Two of this page is a description of abbreviations used in grading.
The following are terms used in Grading Records
Mint: A Mint Record should appear to have just left the manufacturer without any handling. It should appear perfect! No scratches, stains, writing or scuffs, on either the label or vinyl. A cover should appear to never have had a Record in it. Ring Wear (an imprint on the cover from the Record), frays, bends, seam splits, writing: none are allowed in this grade.
M-: Near Mint: A record
that is otherwise Mint but has one or two inconsequential flaws
that do not affect its play. Covers will still be close to
perfect with only minor signs of wear or age evident.
VG++: Very Good Plus Plus: A record with more
inconsequential flaws than a M- grade allows, but is in better
condition than VG+.
VG+: Very Good Plus. May sometimes be referred to as Excellent. A VG+ record has been handled or played either infrequently or very carefully. The Record may have light paper scuffs from sliding it into or out of a paper sleeve. The vinyl may have lost some of its luster. A light scratch(es) that do not affect play would be acceptable in this grade. On covers: some wear from storage is acceptable, especially light wear that does not overly affect the text or artwork.
VG: Very Good. A record Will exhibit visible signs of handling and playing. It will have a loss of vinyl luster, light surface scratches, groove wear, or spindle trails. A VG record looks like it will have some audible noise upon play, but any such noise should not overwhelm the music or ruin the listening experience. A VG cover will show visible signs of handling such as Ring Wear on Front and Back, some seam splitting, bent corners, or loss of Gloss to Photos and Artwork.
Note: I will not offer for sale any record in condition worse than VG.
The following abbreviations are used in describing record condition.