Fine (F): Virtually new, the highest grade we will give to books. No major defects, no torn or missing pages, no names other than authorial signatures or inscriptions, dates, book plates, or any writing or marks on any of the pages. No wear or rubbing to the edges of the binding. A fine dust wrapper would show no blemishes, rubbing or tears, chips (missing pieces), nicks or major faults of any kind. We will note any defects.
Near Fine (NF): Almost fine, but showing very small signs of wear and or rubbing. The binding would still be tight with no missing or damaged pages. Generally there will be no major defects but it may have minor defects. A dust wrapper may be price clipped with very minor bruising in places. There might be minor fading to the colours. We will note any defects.
Very Good (VG): A typical used book which is no longer fresh and crisp. It might have ownership marks or book plates. It is still complete and will have no major defects. The cloth on the boards might be slightly faded or bruised in places. Light toning to page edges or text block. Occasional spotting or foxing. A dust jacket in very good condition may have a few minor flaws such as a closed tear or minor chip or chipping etc or be price clipped. We will note any defects.
Good (G): A well worn, used book but one which still has all of its pages. It should have no more than one major defect such as a cracked hinge(s), or damp staining. More pronounced foxing, spotting, bruising etc. The Dust wrapper may have major tears, heavy chipping or tape repairs, fading etc. We will note any defects.