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belief, a Mint record does not have to be sealed, and if sealed, can not technically be called Mint because it may have scuffs from packaging. It does have to be perfect. There must not be any scratches or scuffs. A Mint cover and the artwork has to be perfect, with no marks, stickers, or writing.

Near Mint (NM or even M-)
This should be the most used grade for almost flawless records and covers. Near Mint graded records can receive the highest price in the price guides. They might have one minor scuff and they should play without any noise. Covers should look near perfect as well, with very small signs of age.

Very Good Plus (VG+)
These should be priced at 50 percent of Mint or NM prices. They might have slightly visible scratches that do not affect the sound. Deep scratches that are visible in plain light are not acceptable. The cover can have slight wear, but no more than three flaws that have to be explained. It can have small writing (not big), show age, and have slight wear to the seams. Water damage and stains are not acceptable.

Very Good (VG)
These are worth 25 percent of NM priced records. There are very noticeable scratches and scuffs that can be heard when played. The noise can be heard during soft passages, but does not affect the enjoyment of the music. Covers have writing, stickers, seam splitting, and look worn. The artwork should still look good.

Good (G) or Good Plus (G+) (sometimes VG-)
These are worth 10-15 percent of NM records. This record can still be played without skipping, but has a lot of noise and visible scratches. You should still be able to enjoy the music. Covers have seam splits and maybe even tape on them, as well as writing. The artwork is still decent.

Poor (P), Fair (F)
These are worth 0-5 percent of NM records. They are hardly worth your time, unless very rare. The record might be warped or cracked and won't play without skipping. The cover is damaged.

Understanding the grading process and the rules associated with grading will allow you to grade your records with confidence. If you are ever in doubt, under grading is better than over grading. Above all, take the best care when handling your collectibles and always be honest when describing them.

Sources:
The Record Collectors Guild
http://www.recordcollecto rsguild.org
Goldmine Grading Standards
http://www.eskimo.com /~bpentium/beatles/grading.htm l

Learn more about this author, Zoe Trudeaux.
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