MINT

Mint records are in most cases sealed in original shrink wrap. The only wear permissible is to the shrink wrap itself.

NEAR-MINT

 NM records have glossy vinyl. There are no visible defects such as writing, tape, or stickers on the labels. The labels should not contain any spindle marks (from someone blindly trying to put the record on the turntable) The vinyl may have a few extremely fine hairline scratches or light scuffs that do not affect the sound quality. The vinyl will "appear" to have been un-played (It may very well have been played and well-cared for) The album cover will have NO writing, tape, creases, folds, seam splits ,stains, ring wear or Promo holes or cuts!

VG+ (EXCELLENT)

VG+ records have glossy vinyl. Slight signs of wear, including light scuffs, very light scratches or slight warping that does not seriously affect the listening experience is permissible. Very slight intermittent background noise mostly in the quiet passages is acceptable. 

The album cover will have no more than three of the following imperfections: light writing such as initials or name in one area, minor creasing, seam splits not larger than 1".  Neatly taped seams of 2" or less. It may also contain very slight ring wear or discoloration, a promo stamp, punch hole or cut-out as originally sold.

VG

VG Records have more obvious flaws such as more pronounced scratches & lack of gloss. Groove wear and scratches deep enough to be felt with a fingernail are common. When played there will be surface noise but it should not continuously overpower the music. There are NO skips permissible with no more than 1.5 grahams of tracking force. It is common to hear crackling and pops especially in the quiet passages. The labels may contain writing such as a persons name or initials or it may contain a piece of tape or sticker with or without writing. The cover may have some seam splits, writing, tape, stickers, ring wear and scuffs.

VG-

VG- All of the defects listed VG category would be more pronounced. The record will play through without skipping WITH NORMAL tracking force. A quick skip or two with no more that 2.5 grahams of tracking force are permissible. The record will have many obvious flaws but still enjoyable to listen to. Generally if the record is rare, it is still highly collectible.

G/G+

Good (G), Good Plus (G+) Good does not mean Bad! A record in Good or Good Plus condition can be put onto a turntable and will play through without skipping WITH NORMAL tracking force. A quick skip or two with no more that 2.5 grahams of tracking force are permissible. It will have significant surface noise and scratches and visible groove wear (on a styrene record, the groove will be starting to turn white). A cover or sleeve will have seam splits, especially at the bottom or on the spine. Tape, writing, ring wear or other defects will start to overwhelm the object.