Defining Condition of Games

How do yall grade your games?



Since recemt;y getting involved online with my gaming endevors, I've noticed that I had previously been kind of under valuing the conditions of some of my games.



I see people online describing items using the terms excellent, very good, good, acceptable, near mint, mint, perfect, etc. But what do all those terms really mean?



I've seen people describe items as near mint, but with crushing to box.

I've also seen items described as "mint," but with a scratch on the label.



Does "mint" not really mean M.I.N.T. anymore? I always thought mint meant without flaws, or perfect.



So do you guys and gals think a game can be mint and still not perfect? Like would a 9.5/10 or even 9.8/10 condition game be considered mint or near mint to you?



Would love to hear everyone's opinions on this.

Comments

  • http://www.nintendoage.com/forum/messageview.cfm?catid=5&threadid=87809



    Here's a thread with the basic discussion on the topic going on.



    It's seems to be the consensus that there is no consensus as to what most of these terms mean. Even "mint condition" has people who'd stretch the term...and I'm sure something that's "broken" to one person is fine to another. (Imagine selling a NES console to someone who puts a dirty game in that won't boot and claims the console is broken)
  • Mint is a popular term used by all collectibles to describe new condition, which is not always perfect. It is the term originating from coins who are in the condition they left the mint from. No coin leaves the mint in perfect condition, they often have flaws associated with manufacturing and flaws of the coining dies, but when compared to circulated pocket change, they may appear flawless, new or perfect.



    Keep this in mind for other collectibles like games. Flaws from the factory like plastic mold irregularities are acceptable as "mint", but any signs of wear would be "near mint" or worse.



    It's best to use your experience and review the pictures when looking online for games. People's descriptions aren't always so reasonable when they're motivated by profits.
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