We are fairly conservative with respect to grading, and our overall interest is in accuracy and thoroughness of description.   In describing our inventory, we attempt to note any and all significant defects to bindings, interiors, and dust jackets.

For most HARDCOVER and SOFTCOVER BOOKS and BOOKLETS, we employ the standard system approved and employed by the Antiquarian Booksellers Assocation of America (ABAA), ranging from Fine (F) through Near Fine (NF), Very Good (VG+/VG), Good (G), Fair (Fr) and Poor (Pr).  Our antiquarian terminology is generally that defined in John Carter's ABC for Book Collectors (Rupert Hart-Davis, 1952, with subsequent editions) or The Bookman's Glossary (Bowker, 1951):

New: New, direct from publisher or distribution warehouse, not previously offered for sale.

Fine: As new, as issued, or very nearly so with only the slightest of deficiencies, which will be specifically noted in our description.

Near Fine: A very modestly handled copy with no significant defects, generally presenting light shelf wear.

Very Good: A decently preserved copy with average wear.

Good: Typically a reading copy, complete and basically intact but presenting moderate wear.

Fair: Significantly worn, acceptable only as a reading or reference copy, presenting compromising defects but still complete.

Poor: Generally not sold except when relative scarcity or other attributes suggest otherwise, with compromising defects such as missing leaves or plates, detached covers, etc.

For VINTAGE PAPERBACKS, we usually resort to the grading system provided in Hancer's Paperback Price Guide; for COMIC BOOKS, the Overstreet Comic Book Price Guide (with categories generally acceptable for other PERIODICALS as well); for POST CARDS, Mashburn's Postcard Price Guide; for BASEBALL CARDS, Beckett's and/or Tuff Stuff. For any other items, we attempt to present as complete and objective an appraisal of condition as possible. Please e-mail us if you have any questions about these grading standards.