Album Grading

Goldmine Magazine Record grading:

MINT

The record itself is in brand new condition with no surface marks or deterioration in sound quality. The cover and any extra items such as the lyric sheet, booklet or poster are in perfect condition. Records advertised as Sealed or Unplayed should be Mint.

NEAR MINT

The record appears to have been opened for the first time. All inserts and/or materials are included. No surface noise at playback. Free of visible defects. Labels are correct in placement without marks. The cover and sleeve are free of creases, ring wear, splits. Cutouts are unacceptable.

EXCELLENT

The record shows some signs of having been played, but there is very little lessening in sound quality. The cover and packaging might have slight wear and/or creasing.

VERY GOOD

The record has obviously been played many times, but displays no major deterioration in sound quality, despite noticeable surface marks and the occasional light scratch.

Normal wear and tear on the cover or extra items, without any major defects, is acceptable.

GOOD

The record has been played so much that the sound quality has noticeably deteriorated, perhaps with some distortion and mild scratches. The cover and contents suffer from folding, scuffing of edges, spine splits, discolouration, etc.

Fair / Poor is added as a condition description if the album is less than what "Good" above states.