We use THE GOLDMINE GRADING SYSTEM and grade very conservatively
MINT (M)
Absolutely perfect in every way. Never been played, possibly even still sealed. Extremely rare.
NEAR MINT (NM OR M-)
An NM or M- record has most likely never been played or if it has, it contains no imperfections or signs of wear. The sleeve should also be near perfect and only show the most minor signs of having been handled. The LP cover should have no creases, folds, seam splits, punch-holes or other marks or other such defects. The same should be true for any additional materials included with the record such as posters or lyric sleeves, etc.
VERY GOOD PLUS (VG+)
A VG+ record will show slight signs of wear and defects should be of a cosmetic nature. These will not affect the actual playback of the record and any signs of wear, slight scuffs or very light scratches don’t affect the listening experience. Slight warps that do not affect the sound are acceptable. The label may have some ring wear or discoloration, but it should be negligible. Spindle marks may be present. Picture sleeves and inner sleeves will have some slight wear, slightly turned-up corners, or a slight seam split. The LP cover may have slight signs of wear, a cut-out hole, indentation, or cut corner, etc.
VERY GOOD (VG)
Defects found in a VG+ record will be more pronounced with a VG record. Upon playback there may be surface noise, most notably during quieter sections and during a song’s intro and fade. This will not overpower the listening experience. Light scratches (deep enough to feel with your fingernail) and groove wear may be present which will affect the sound. Both the labels and LP may contain writing, stickers or their residue, etc. However a VG vinyl record will not have all of these defects at the same time.
GOOD (G), GOOD PLUS (G+)
A record in G or G+ condition will have noticeable surface noise, scratches and groove wear, but can still be played through without skipping. The cover or sleeve may have seam splits along with other writing, sticker or tape markings and ring wear. Although the record can be played through without skipping, there will be surface noise and ‘ticks’ that will be noticeable to the listener.
POOR (P), FAIR (F)
*Millpond does not carry P or F graded vinyl.
Records graded P or F are badly damaged or warped and will not be able to play through without skipping or repeating. The LP cover, inner sleeves and picture sleeve also have extensive damage such as water, writing and split seams. We do not sell these online, but some are available for digging through for in store shopping anytime.
