Aimee Mann - @#%&*! Smilers

How Vinyl Record Grading Works

When buying or selling vinyl records, condition is everything. Grading gives buyers and sellers a shared language to describe a record's physical state — and ultimately its sound quality and value. We use the industry-standard Goldmine Grading Scale, the most widely recognized system in the collector community.

The Grades

Mint (M)

Absolutely perfect in every way. Never played, still sealed or in flawless unplayed condition. This grade is rarely used and almost impossible to guarantee.

Near Mint (NM or M-)

Nearly perfect. The record shows no signs of play and has been handled with great care. Surfaces are clean and shiny with no visible marks. 

Very Good Plus (VG+)

Shows some signs of play but will play near-perfectly with minimal surface noise. Light scuffs or hairlines may be visible under direct light but won't affect playback noticeably. The most common grade for quality used records.

Very Good (VG)

Noticeable surface marks and light scratches that will produce some background noise during playback. Still a enjoyable listen, but clearly a played copy. Typically priced accordingly.This is our most commonly assigned grading. 

Good (G) / Good Plus (G+)

Heavy wear with significant surface noise throughout. The record plays through but the listening experience is compromised. Suitable mainly for display or as a placeholder until a better copy is found.

Poor (P) / Fair (F)

Severely damaged — cracked, warped, or so heavily scratched that playback is barely possible. Generally collectible only for the cover or as a curiosity.

Sleeve & Cover Condition

We grade the record and sleeve separately. A record can be NM while the sleeve is VG — both grades will be listed in the product description. Common sleeve issues include seam splits, ring wear, writing, and price stickers.

Our Grading Philosophy

We grade conservatively. If a record is on the border between two grades, we assign the lower one. We'd rather exceed your expectations than disappoint. If you ever have a question about a specific listing's condition, don't hesitate to reach out before purchasing.