The Vinyl Record Finder/Grading Scale

Nothing is more important in determining the value of your records than their condition! While their relative rarity and demand is important, we will certainly pay more for a record in Near Mint (NM) condition than one in Very Good Minus (VG-) condition. Since grading vinyl records can be subjective, there have been some effort to standardize a grading guide. Goldmine developed the guide below and it is now the most widely used guide for the buying and selling of vinyl records. Most collectors swear by it. "Use the information below to help grade your old vinyl records!"

Goldmine Grading Scale

Mint (M) Absolutely perfect in every way. The record has never been played and may still be sealed.

Near Mint (NM or M-) The record should show no obvious signs of wear. The cover should have no creases, folds,

seam splits or other noticeable similar defects. The original sleeve is usually present.

Very Good Plus (VG+) The record will show some signs that it was played and otherwise handled by a previous owner who took good care of it. The surface of the record may show some signs of wear and may have slight scuffs or very light scratches that don not affect playback. The cover will show slight wear, lightly turned up corners, or slight seam splits.

Very Good (VG) The record will have more pronounced problems than those mentioned above in the VG+ category. Surface noise will be evident upon playing, especially in soft passages and during a song's intro and fade, but will not overpower the music otherwise. Groove wear will start to be noticeable, as with light scratches (deep enough to feel with a fingernail) that will affect the sound. The cover will have some of the same problems as with the VG+ cover, but will be more pronounced.

Good (G), Good Plus (G+) Good is not always Bad! A record of this condition will have significant surface noise,

scratches and visible groove wear. A Good record can be played through with noise, but without skipping. The cover or

sleeve will have seam splits, especially at the bottom or on the spine. Tape, writing, ring wear or other defects will be present.

Poor (P), Fair (F) The record is cracked, badly warped, and won't play through without skipping

or repeating. The cover will have full seam split, crinkles, water damage or extensive wear.riting.

Now That You Have An Idea As To How Grading Records Work (What's The Next Step)?

Now, just give us a call at 901-444-2786 (Ask for "Doc") and give us some information about the records you want to sell (genres, artists, general condition, approximate quantity, etc.). After that, we will set up a house call. We are available to buy collections everyday, so we can arrange a time that is convenient for you. More information about how to sell us your records can be found here: Sell Us Your Records