Grading
Mint (M).
These are absolutely perfect in every way. Mint should never be used as a grade unless more than one person agrees that the record or sleeve truly is in this condition. Brand new and sealed records are Mint.
Near Mint (NM).
NM records are shiny, with no visible defects. Writing, stickers or other markings cannot appear on the label, nor can any “spindle marks” from someone trying to blindly put the record on the turntable. If played, it will do so with no surface noise. NM covers are free of creases, ring wear and seam splits of any kind.
Very Good plus or Excellent (VG+ or EX).
Except for a couple minor things, this would be Near Mint. VG+ records may show some slight signs of wear, including light scuffs or very light scratches that do not affect the listening experience. Slight warps that do not affect the sound are OK. Spindle marks are ok. A VG+ cover might have some very minor seam wear or a split (less than one inch long) at the bottom and may have cut corner.
Very Good (VG).
VG records have more obvious flaws and lack most of the original gloss. Groove wear and light scratches deep enough to feel with a fingernail are evident. When played, a VG record has surface noise, and some scratches may be audible, especially in soft passages and during a song’s intro and ending. But the noise will not overpower the music otherwise. Minor writing, tape or a sticker may be present on the label or sleeve. VG covers will have ring wear and seam splits. Someone might have written or it or stamped a price tag on it, too.