You know that feeling, finding an excellent record, but you’re not sure if it’s worth the price or even playable. That’s where understanding the vinyl grading scale matters.

If you’re buying, selling, or just building your collection, grading helps you avoid surprises and make smart choices.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through exactly what each grade means, how to apply it, and what to watch for. It’s everything you need to feel confident when handling or hunting for vinyl.

Want to make sure you’re not overpaying or misgrading? Keep reading.

What is a Vinyl Grading Scale?

The vinyl grading scale is a standard system used to describe the condition of records. It helps buyers and sellers quickly understand a record’s visual and audio quality.

If you’re collecting or selling, grading matters; it affects the value, how well the record plays, and what someone’s willing to pay.

Most grading systems follow the widely accepted Goldmine Standard, which ranks records from Mint (M) down to Poor (P). Knowing the scale helps ensure fairness and accuracy in the vinyl marketplace.

Vinyl Record Grades Explained

This grading system helps collectors and sellers describe a record’s condition based on common standards and buyer expectations.

Mint (M)

Mint means the record is in perfect condition, factory-sealed, never played, and with no marks, warps, or defects. It looks exactly as it did when it left the pressing plant.

Both the record and its sleeve are flawless. This grade is scarce because even handling can downgrade it. Mint records are usually priced at the highest value due to their untouched state.

Near Mint (NM or M-)

Near Mint records have been played no more than a few times and handled with great care. They show no obvious signs of wear or defects. The vinyl may have a faint surface mark or two, but there’s no audible impact.

The sleeve is clean with no creases or splits. This is the most commonly sold top grade since true Mint is so rare.

Very Good Plus (VG+)

A VG+ record looks great overall and plays well, but may show light signs of use. You might see faint scuffs or slight ring wear on the sleeve. Surface noise may be noticeable in quiet spots, but it won’t overwhelm the music.

This grade is ideal for collectors who want a nice copy without paying premium prices. Many quality used records fall into this category.

Very Good (VG)

VG records show visible wear and have more noticeable surface noise during playback. Expect scuffs, scratches, or groove wear that may slightly affect the sound. However, the record still plays through without skipping.

Covers may show ring wear, edge wear, or slight splits. VG copies are popular for listening copies or casual collections where perfection isn’t necessary, but functionality still matters.

Good (G) and Good Plus (G+)

These records show heavy use and wear. Expect significant surface noise, scratches, or even small skips. The sleeve may have writing, heavy ring wear, or seam splits. While they still play, the listening experience is far from ideal.

G and G+ grades are generally reserved for rare records where availability outweighs condition. These copies are best for filling gaps in a collection affordably.

Fair (F) and Poor (P)

Fair and Poor records are typically unplayable or severely flawed. These may be cracked, warped, or have heavy skips throughout.

The sleeve might be torn, stained, or missing entirely. While not suited for listening, collectors may still want them if the record is rare or the artwork is significant. These are often sold for display or archival interest, not for actual play.

Excellent (EX), VG++, VG-

These are intermediate grades used by specific sellers to describe records that fall between main categories. For example, VG++ may indicate a better condition than VG+ but not quite NM.

These grades aren’t officially recognized in the Goldmine system but are widely used online and in record shops. They help add nuance when a standard label doesn’t quite match the record’s condition.

How to Grade Vinyl Records Yourself

Follow these simple steps to accurately assess a record’s condition before buying, selling, or adding it to your collection.

Step 1: Inspect Visually

Hold the record under a bright light and tilt it to spot scratches, scuffs, fingerprints, or warping. Pay close attention to the play surface and edges. Small marks may not affect playback, but should still be noted.

Visual inspection gives a fast first impression of the overall condition before any listening test.

Step 2: Play-Test (If Possible)

If you have a turntable, listen to the entire record or at least key sections. Watch for skips, distortion, and background noise. Note whether the flaws occur in loud or quiet tracks.

Some wear may be visible but not audible. Play-testing confirms the true audio quality and helps refine your final grade.

Step 3: Grade the Sleeve

Examine the cover carefully for signs of wear, ring wear, corner dings, creases, seam splits, or water damage. Make sure to grade the sleeve separately from the vinyl.

Even if the record plays perfectly, a damaged sleeve lowers overall value and should be noted honestly in any listing or collection notes.

Step 4: Assign the Grade

Compare what you saw and heard to a recognized scale like Goldmine. Be conservative, round down, not up, if you’re unsure. Don’t overrate the condition to boost value; it can hurt your credibility.

Using honest, accurate grading builds trust and helps others know exactly what they’re getting.

Platform-Specific Grading Differences

Different platforms follow unique grading practices, so it’s important to know what to expect before buying or selling records online.

Discogs

Discogs uses a visual-only grading policy, which means sellers don’t need to play-test records. The platform follows a standardized scale, including Mint, Near Mint, VG+, VG, and so on.

Grading must be separate for both the vinyl and the sleeve. While it’s trusted for consistency, the lack of audio checks can sometimes lead to surprises after purchase.

eBay

Grading on eBay is less consistent. Sellers often use terms like Excellent (EX), VG++, or other non-standard labels. Some listings follow Goldmine standards, while others rely on personal opinion.

Photos and detailed descriptions vary, so buyers should read listings carefully and ask questions when needed. Unlike Discogs, eBay doesn’t strictly enforce grading formats, making experiences hit or miss.

Record Shops and Collectors

Local shops and private collectors may grade using informal or hybrid systems. Some use the Goldmine scale, while others add in their own terms or visual shortcuts.

In many cases, they combine the sleeve and vinyl into a single overall grade. Because methods vary widely, it’s best to ask for clarification or inspect in person if possible.

Why Vinyl Grades Impact Value

A record’s condition directly affects its resale value, collectibility, and desirability, making accurate grading essential for buyers and sellers.

Condition Affects Price

Vinyl prices can vary widely based on grade. For example, a Near Mint record might sell for $50, while the same title in Good condition may go for just $10. Buyers pay more for better sound and cleaner visuals.

Accurate grading helps set fair prices and prevents disputes. Overgrading can damage trust and result in returns or poor reviews.

Collector Value vs Playability

Not all collectors buy records to play them. Some rare or limited-press records still hold value even in Poor condition. On the other hand, a common title with only slight wear might become hard to sell.

Serious collectors often prioritize rarity over playback quality, while casual buyers focus on how well the record sounds. Grade honestly based on your audience.

Common Grading Mistakes to Avoid

Grading vinyl accurately takes care and consistency. Small errors can lead to lost trust, unhappy buyers, or returns.

• Overgrading to increase price: Rating a record higher than it deserves might boost its price short term, but risks complaints, returns, or negative feedback.
• Ignoring sleeve condition: Many buyers care about cover condition. A clean record in a damaged sleeve still lowers overall value and appeal.
• Not testing for audio flaws: Some scratches don’t show up visually but create noise. Always listen if possible, especially with higher-value records.
• Using non-standard labels: Terms like “good for its age” or “like new” confuse buyers. Stick with recognized grading terms like NM, VG+, or G.

Final Thoughts

Grading vinyl records isn’t just about condition; it’s about setting the right expectations. Once you understand the vinyl grading scale, you’ll be able to buy smarter, sell more honestly, and enjoy collecting without second-guessing.

You don’t need to be a pro to get it right. Just take your time, trust your eyes and ears, and stick to the basics.

If you’re ever unsure, start with visual inspection and play-test when you can. And remember, an honest grade is better than a risky sale.

Want to keep leveling up your vinyl knowledge? Check out my other post on the website.