Near Mint NM : This is a record that has been played just a few times or was handled and played with great care. The jacket will also show few signs of being handled.
Excellent Exc. : A record that has been played several times with proper care. There may be slight scuffs or very light hairline marks that do not impair the sound of the record.Jackets may have some ring/spine wear and discoloration. Inner sleeves/booklets may have some slight wear.
Very Good Plus VG : You will probably hear some surface noise between tracks or in quiet sections of a VG record. This is a record that was played several times without proper care or was played many times with care. Though there may be a pop or tic at times, the record will be enjoyable to listen to. The cover and the labels may show some writing, or have stickers or residue attached. Spine and ring wear on the jacket will usually be evident.
Very Good VG : A VG record will play pretty decently, but there will be noticeable surface noise at times. There may be a mark on the record that is audible for several revolutions. The jacket may have seam splits and soiling.