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Crate

Every artist, label, seller and record here is fictional.

Crate

Goldmine scale

Grading guide

Every copy on Crate carries two grades: one for the record (media, “M:”) and one for the sleeve (“S:”). Sellers grade by eye under a bright light, then play-test anything at VG or below.

Typical price vs a Near Mint copy

  1. M

    Mint

    ≈ 135% of NM

    Record (M:)

    Absolutely perfect in every way. Often still sealed. Never played, never handled outside the factory.

    Sleeve (S:)

    Perfect, with no wear, writing, splits or stickers. Usually still in shrink-wrap.

  2. NM

    Near Mint

    ≈ 100% of NM

    Record (M:)

    Played a handful of times with care. A glossy surface, no marks visible under light, and no surface noise beyond the quietest pressing hiss.

    Sleeve (S:)

    Looks nearly new: sharp corners, no ring wear, no seam splits, no writing.

  3. VG+

    Very Good Plus

    ≈ 62% of NM

    Record (M:)

    Shows light signs of play, such as faint scuffs that don't affect the sound. Plays cleanly with only occasional, minor noise.

    Sleeve (S:)

    Slight wear: light ring wear or a soft corner, a small cut-out mark or a radio-station stamp.

  4. VG

    Very Good

    ≈ 38% of NM

    Record (M:)

    Noticeable surface noise and light scratches you can feel, especially in quiet passages, but the music still dominates. No skips.

    Sleeve (S:)

    Clear ring wear, seam splits or writing on the cover. Still complete and presentable on a shelf.

  5. G

    Good

    ≈ 18% of NM

    Record (M:)

    Plays through without skipping, but with constant noise, groove wear and scratches. A reference copy or a sampler's copy.

    Sleeve (S:)

    Heavy wear: splits, tape, writing or water damage. Protects the record; that's about all.

Grades are a convention, not a guarantee. If a copy arrives below its grade, every Crate seller accepts returns within 14 days.