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Whether you are a collector or you would like to sale those records that are collecting dust in the attic, the grading scale of vinyl records will become an important tool to utilize when describing their condition. Goldmine Records put together a grading scale that most record enthusiast trust and use as a reference for grading vinyl records. The scale is represented by letters that range from "M" for mint condition to "P" for poor or the worst grade on the scale.

There are some sellers that also grade the sound quality however most grade only by the appearance of the album and sleeve. The individual grading the record should examine everything concerning the record including the surface, label, sleeve and edges under strong lighting. Dealers usually grade the album and the sleeve (cover) separately. If you come across separate grading, the record grade should be listed first and then the sleeve grade.

Defects that affect the value of vinyl records and their covers can include but are not limited to scratches, creases, folds, splits in the seams, signs of handling (fingerprints), cut-out holes and missing inserts.

*MINT (M)
An album graded as mint should be considered as new, never played and sealed if possible. Grading an album as "Mint" should be in perfect condition without any flaws so this grade is rarely used.

It is important to remember that with technology created within the last decade, it is possible to find a sealed album that may not be legitimate. It is rare to find older albums that are originally sealed so let the buyer beware when purchasing vintage, sealed albums. European imports do not come factory-sealed and when finding one advertised as such, it was sealed by someone other than the manufacturer.

*NEAR MINT (NM or M-)
The record should be as close to perfect in every way showing no outward signs of wear. Having a vinyl record in near mint condition should look as if it was recently purchased and has not been handled. The sleeve should have no signs of imperfections; all inserts that originally may have come with the record (posters, lyrics) should still be with the album and also be free of flaws.

*VERY GOOD PLUS (VG+)
A vinyl record with this grade will have some outward signs that it has been played but the handling of the album shows that it was cared for. Extremely light scratches and slight warps are allowed but they must not affect the album play or cause skipping. The album and cover can only have limited, minor flaws including slight turned-up

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