Grading Guide

Every used record we sell is inspected and graded by hand using the Goldmine grading standard, the same scale collectors use on Discogs. We grade the vinyl and the jacket separately, and we grade conservatively, so records usually look and sound as good as or better than listed.

Vinyl and jacket grades

Mint (M)

Perfect in every way. Usually still sealed. We rarely use this grade for used records.

Near Mint (NM or M-)

Looks and plays like new. No visible marks on the vinyl. The jacket has no creases, seam splits, or writing.

Very Good Plus (VG+)

Shows light signs of play, like faint scuffs or sleeve marks that do not affect the sound. The jacket may have slight wear. A great copy for most listeners.

Very Good (VG)

More noticeable marks and some light surface noise, mostly in quiet passages, but it plays through without skipping. The jacket may have ring wear, seam wear, or writing.

Good Plus (G+) and Good (G)

Plays through without skipping, with clear surface noise and visible wear. The jacket shows heavy wear. Priced to match.

Fair (F) and Poor (P)

Heavily worn and may skip. Best for collectors filling a gap or for display.

Other things we note

• Seam splits, ring wear, cut outs, stickers, or writing on the jacket
• Missing or damaged inner sleeves, inserts, or posters
• Pressing details like first pressings, reissues, or promo copies when we know them

Our promise

If a used record does not match the grade we listed, you can return it for a full refund. See our return policy for details.