Card Condition Guide
Understanding card condition is essential for buying and selling raw trading cards. This guide explains the five condition grades used on Vault & Value and how each affects value.
Near Mint
NM100%
Full market value
Example photos coming soon
Virtually perfect. Sharp corners, clean edges, centered 60/40 or better, no surface wear.
- Corners are sharp and virtually free of wear
- Edges are clean with no nicks or chips
- Surface free of scratches, print lines, or staining
- Centering 60/40 or better on both front and back
- Gloss fully intact on surface
Excellent
EX70–85%
of NM value
Example photos coming soon
Light wear. Slightly soft corners, minor edge nicks, surface may show faint lines.
- Corners slightly soft from minor handling
- Minor edge nicks possible but not distracting
- Surface may show very faint lines or light scratches
- Centering generally good (65/35 or better)
- Gloss largely intact with minimal loss
Very Good – Excellent
VG-EX50–70%
of NM value
Example photos coming soon
Moderate wear. Slightly rounded corners, light creasing possible.
- Corners show moderate rounding from wear
- Edges may show noticeable nicks or chipping
- Light surface creasing may be visible
- Centering may be off (up to 70/30)
- Some gloss loss on surface
Good
G25–50%
of NM value
Example photos coming soon
Heavy wear. Rounded corners, creases, possible staining but card intact.
- Corners heavily rounded from wear
- Edges show significant nicking or chipping
- Surface creases or wrinkles clearly visible
- Possible light staining or minor marks
- Card remains structurally intact
Poor
P<25%
of NM value
Example photos coming soon
Major defects. Tears, heavy creasing, writing possible.
- Major corner wear, possibly worn to white
- Significant creasing or fold marks
- Possible tears, holes, or tape marks
- Writing or stamps may be present
- Heavy staining or discoloration
Tips for Accurate Grading
Check under good lighting
Hold the card at different angles under a bright light to spot print lines, surface wear, and centering issues.
Assess both sides
Condition is judged on both front and back. A pristine front with a bent back still affects the overall grade.
When in doubt, grade lower
Buyers prefer honest descriptions. Accurately graded cards build trust and lead to better reviews.
Ready to buy or sell with confidence?