Learn About The Goldmine Grading Standards For Selling Vinyl

The information on the condition of the vinyl or the cover is based on the internationally adopted "Goldmine Grading Standard" for records, which we use for all used vinyl in our shop. Most records that we offer are at least in VG+ (Very Good Plus) condition. 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 shrink wrap but has been opened.

Near Mint (NM or M-)
A nearly perfect record is graded near mint. The records show no signs of wear, and the cover has no creases, cut-outs, folds, seam splits, or other noticeable defects.

Very Good Plus (VG+)
A VG+ record shows signs that it was played and 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 of play 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 writing, or there may be 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 collectible items.

Good (G), Good Plus (G+)
The record can still be put on a turntable and should play through without skipping, but it will have significant surface noise, 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 collectible 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 collectible items.