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The following system to appraise vinyl records was first developed by Goldmine Records. Virtually all methods currently in use for the grading of records, are based in some way, on this system. So we will stick with the trusted methodology!
Look at everything about a record. It's playing surface, it's label, it's edges...under a strong light. Then based on your overall impression appaise your vinyl record on the following criteria:
The record should show no obvious signs of wear. A 45 RPM or EP sleeve should have no more than the most minor defects, such as almost invisible ring wear or other signs of slight handling.
An LP cover should have no creases, folds, seam splits or other noticeable similar
defects. No cut-
Basically, an LP in near mint condition looks as if you just got it home from a new record store and removed the shrink wrap.
A Very Good Plus record will show some signs that it was played and otherwise handled by a previous owner who took good care of it.
Record surfaces may show some signs of wear and may have slight scuffs or very light scratches that don't affect one's listening experiences. Slight warps that do not affect the sound are "OK".
The label may have some ring wear or discoloration, but it should be barely noticeable. The centre hole will not have been misshapen by repeated play.
Picture sleeves and LP inner sleeves will have some slight wear, lightly turned up
corners, or a slight seam split. An LP cover may have slight signs of wear also and
may be marred by a cut-
In general, if not for a couple things wrong with it, this would be Near Mint. All
but the most mint-
Labels may be marred by writing, or have tape or stickers (or their residue) attached. The same will be true of picture sleeves or LP covers. However, it will not have all of these problems at the same time, only two or three of them.
Goldmine price guides with more than one price will list Very Good as the lowest price. This, not the Near Mint price, should be your guide when determining how much a record is worth, as that is the price a dealer will normally pay you for a Near Mint record.
A cover or sleeve will have seam splits, especially at the bottom or on the spine. Tape, writing, ring wear or other defects will start to overwhelm the object.
If it is a common item, you'll probably find another copy in better shape eventually. Pass it up. But, if it's something you have been seeking for years, and the price is right, get it...but keep looking to upgrade.
Except for impossibly rare records otherwise unattainable, records in this condition should be bought or sold for no more than a few cents each.
Other Considerations
Most dealers give a separate grade to the record and it's sleeve or cover. In an ad, a record's grade is listed first, followed by that of the sleeve or the cover.
With Still Sealed (SS) records, let the buyer beware! Unless it's a U.S. pressing
from the last 10-
Also, in the US, european Imports are not factory-
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