Used Vinyl Grading System

The information on the condition of the vinyl or the cover is based on the internationally adopted “Goldmine Grading Standard” for records, which is indicated with all used vinyl in our shop. Most records that we offer are at least in VG+/ Very Good Plus conditions. In a few cases our records have an F/ Fair rating.

Sealed (M/S)

Items in Mint Sealed are like new and still sealed.

Mint (M)

Items in mint condition are perfect in every way. There are no signs of use and the cover has no cut-outs or any other defects. Usually, the cover is still in the shrink but has been opened.

Near Mint (NM or M-)

A nearly perfect record is graded near mint. The records show no signs of wear, the cover has no creases, cut outs, folds, seam splits or other noticeable similar defects.

Very Good Plus (VG+)

A VG+ record shows signs that it was played and otherwise handled by a previous owner who took good care of it. Record surfaces may show some signs of wear and may have slight scuffs or light scratches that don’t affect play. Picture sleeves will have some slight wear, lightly turned up corners, a slight seam split, or may have cut-outs. The labels may have stickers on them.

Very Good (VG)

A VG record shows more pronounced signs that it was played than a VG+ record. Surface noise may be evident upon playing, but will not overpower the music. The record may have light scratches that might affect the sound. Labels may have writings, or may have tape or stickers (or their residue) attached. The same will be true of picture sleeves or LP covers. Items in this condition usually are not sold in our store unless they are rare and collectable items.

Good (G), Good Plus (G+)

The record can still be put onto a turntable and should play through without skipping. But it will have significant surface noise and scratches and visible groove wear. The cover or sleeve will have seam splits, especially at the bottom or on the spine. Tape, writing, ring wear or other defects are possible. Items in this condition usually are not sold in our store unless they are rare and collectable items.

Poor (P), Fair (F)

The record is cracked, badly warped, and won’t play through without skipping or repeating. The picture sleeve will show significant signs of wear. Items in this condition usually are not sold in our store unless they are rare and collectable items.