Mint (M): I would consider a magazine to be mint only if it was extremely lucky in surviving delivery completely unblemmished and there is no evidence of ever having been handled. Very few magazines can be considered for this grade although it is possible.

Near Mint (NM): This grade will show little or trace evidence of ever having been read or handled. It is highly desireable and realistically the best condition one could hope for. A fresh newsstand copy will usually grade NM.

Very Fine (VF): You may find one or two very minor flaws typically from shipping or having been handled briefly and then stored properly in a pollution-free environment. Subscription copies will usually fall under this category.

Fine: (F) Probably the most common grade among collectible issues. It will certainly enhance any collection. This magazine will have been carefully handled, well protected, and have few noticable flaws.

Very Good (VG): The minimum grade for a collectible magazine. There will be evidence of minor wear such as slight loosening at the staples, a small blemmish or two, or small dogears at the corners. Still above average and still 100% complete and intact. For issues older than 30 years, this grade is quite acceptable.

Good (G): This magazine will show evidence of sloppy handling but will still be complete. This is the highest grade I'll give a Playboy magazine if the centerfold is loose. I also refer to these as "read" copies. With the exception of Playboys before 1965, this grade has little collector value.

All lower grades: These issues will have evidence of water damage, taping, tears, missing centerfolds, loose covers, and the like. I throw them away and don't offer them for sale.