RECORD GRADING

MINT (M) : Absolutely perfect in every way. I only use this grading for sealed items.

NEAR MINT (NM) : My highest grading for non sealed items. As new. 

VERY GOOD + (VG+): Record will show some signs that it was played and otherwise handled by a previous owner who took good care of it. Record surfaces may show some slight signs of wear and may have slight scuffs or very light scratches that don't affect one's listening experience. Slight warps that do not affect sound are OK. The label may have some ring wear or discoloration, but it should be barely noticeable. The cover can have some wear from storage, but it should not affect the beauty of the artwork. 

VERY GOOD (VG) : Many of the defects found in a Vg+ record will be more pronounced in a VG disc. Surface noise will be evident upon playing, especially in soft passages and during a song's intro and fade, but will not overpower the music otherwise. A VG record looks like it will have some audible surface noises when played, but it will not overwhelm the music or the overall listening experience. Groove wear will start to be noticeable, as will light scratches (deep enough to feel with a fingernail) that will affect the sound. Labels may be marred by writing, ring wear, seam splits, or have tape or stickers (or their residue) attached. However, it will not have all of these problems at the same time, only two or three of them. 

GOOD (G) : Obvious scuffing and marking, but will play through with significant surface noise, pops, crackles, etc. Cover has heavier writing, worn label, obvious splits on sight.