There's nothing we hate more than a badly graded record! (Except for a badly packaged one)GRADING (first cover/then record) - here's a quick run-down of the used standards.
M (mint) = The record and sleeve are brand new, no signs of use whatsoever.
M- (mint minus) = the cover/vinyl are almost like new. Faint traces a.i. a minimal dent, a microscopic mark, a tiny hairline prevent it from being total mint.
EX (excellent) = the cover/record is in excellent condition, the signs of ageing are minimal. The cover has little wear, if any it'll be specified. The vinyl plays great, except for accidental crackles, which will be specified. The labels are clean, a mere few marks around the spindle may occur.
VG+ (very good plus) = Cover/record show signs of multiple use, but holding through. Wear at edges, corners, spine do appear, but nothing serious. Vinyl will/may have hairlines, scuff marks, crackly parts, but still in a condition worth enjoying the music.
VG (very good) = a no-good grading standard! It's either vg+ or vg-! To avoid any possible debate or disappointment. What you read is what you get.
VG- (very good minus) = (some) Things start getting bad. Cover and/or record have started loosing their initial qualities, hence the first, clearly visible signs of deterioration. Record may play with ocassional pops/clicks/hisses, labels may show signs of heavy rotation.
Record and/or vinyl is downgraded due to major flaw (tear/scrach/stick/jump), which will ne noted. Don't expect anything fancy!
G (good) = Probably worth listing, just not falling apart yet. May play OK, but something is wrong here.
F (fair) = Hey Lord, don't ask me Questions. This is the stuff cheapskates buy and complain afterwards. Do not buy if not familiar with grading standards.
P (poor) = There should be an awful good reason to list this; maybe the cover is still good, and an opportunity to upgrade your copy is knocking.
If the above policy leaves any doubts, please refer to GEMM's generally accepted Grading Standard