Vinyl Grading

We rate the vinyl records and/or the covers according to the Goldmine Grading Standard for records.

Mint (M)

Perfect in every respect. It has certainly never been played and may even still be shrink-wrapped. This review should only be used with the utmost caution, if at all.

Near Mint (NM or M-)

A near-perfect record. An NM or M record has most likely never been played. When played, the record plays perfectly and without any extraneous noise. Many dealers do not use ratings higher than NM, based on the (perhaps accurate) assumption that no record can ever truly be in perfect condition. The record should show no visible signs of wear. The sleeve of a single or EP should at most show minimal signs of wear, such as those that occur with minimal use. The sleeve of an LP should not be bumped, nor should it have creases or seam splits, or punched or sawed markings and similar obvious defects. The same applies to any inserts such as posters, printed inner sleeves, etc.

Very Good Plus (VG+)

Generally possesses about 50% of the value of a Near-Mint copy. A record in Very Good Plus condition shows slight signs of play, but has been carefully handled by its previous owner. Imperfections should be more cosmetic in nature and not impair the overall playback. The surface of the record may show minor signs of wear or slight abrasion and very light scratches that do not diminish the listening experience. A slight warp is considered "okay" as long as it does not affect the sound. The label may show ring wear or be slightly faded - this should hardly be noticeable. Spindle marks may be present. Picture covers and inner sleeves are slightly worn, the corners are slightly bumped, a slight seam split may be present. LP sleeves show slight signs of wear and may be affected by a punched hole, a cut corner or dents. In general, it can be said that this would be a Near-Mint copy if not for a few minor flaws.

Very Good (VG)

Generally has a value of 25% of the Near-Mint value.

Many of the defects that also occur in a VG+ record are more pronounced here. When playing, surface noise is audible - especially during quieter passages and at the beginning and end of a piece - but it does not otherwise drown out the music. Wear of the grooves is gradually noticeable and light scratches (i.e. those deep enough to be felt with a fingernail) impair the sound. The labels may have been affected by labels, stickers or adhesive tape (or corresponding residues). The same applies to picture sleeves or LP covers. However, not all of the mentioned impairments should be present at the same time. If several prices according to the Goldmine standard are available, the Very-Good price is always the lowest price.

Good (G), Good Plus (G+)

Generally, it has a value of 10-15% of the Near-Mint value. A record in "Good" or "Good Plus" condition plays through without skipping, but shows significant surface noise, scratches, and visible groove wear. The record sleeve has split seams, especially often on the back and bottom. Adhesive tape, ring wear, labels, or other damage are present. Although the record plays without skipping, the listening experience will most likely be accompanied by significant surface noise and crackles.

Poor (P), Fair (F)

Generally has a value of 0-5% of the Near-Mint value. The record is broken or severely warped and cannot be played without skipping or sticking. The picture sleeve shows water damage, is pierced on all three edges, and is severely impaired in its condition by wear and tear or markings. The record sleeve barely holds the record anymore. Inner sleeves are completely torn, creased, or marked with inscriptions.

Items in this condition are not usually offered in our shop.