Vinyl Record Conditions and Grading

Grading Vinyl:

Here is the Record Collector Price Guide grading system for condition of records & covers.

This system is used by dealers & collectors worldwide including us

Some dealers will use in-between grades like Ex+ Ex- Vg+

We hope this will be helpful. If you think this can be improved please let us know.

1. MINT:

The record itself is in brand new condition with no surface marks or deterioration in sound quality. The cover and any any extra items such as the lyric sheet, booklet or poster are in perfect condition. Records advertised, as Sealed or Unplayed should be mint…

2. EXCELLENT:

The record shows some sign of having been played, but there is very little lessening in sound quality. The cover and packaging might have slight wear and/or creasing…

3. VERY GOOD:

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…

4. GOOD:

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…

5. FAIR:

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…

6. POOR:

The record will not play properly due to scratches, bad surface noise, etc, The cover and contents will be badly damaged or partly missing…

7. BAD:

The record is unplayable or might even be broken, and is only of use as a collection filler…