I grade the items visually but strictly. In my humble opinion, only SEALEDitems have the right to consider as MINT.
The standard condition categories and a description of what each ones means are listed below. Please take a look.
MINT (M): The CD itself is in brand new condition with no surface marks. The cover and any extra items such as the lyric sheet, booklet or poster are in perfect condition.
EXCELLENT (EX): The CD shows some signs of having been played. The cover and packaging might have slight wear and/or creasing.
VERY GOOD (VG): The CD has obviously been played many times but there is not any deterioration in sound quality, despite noticeable surface marks. Normal wear and tear on the cover or extra items, without any major defects, is acceptable.
GOOD (G): The CD shows many marks and/or scuffs but they don't affect sound quality . The cover and contents suffer from folding, scuffing of edges, spine splits, discoloration, etc
