Magazine Grading Standards This document details how we grade magazines, newspapers, yearbooks, media guides and other types of books. The standards for grading magazines fall into two categories: Magazines (Sports Illustrated for example) that will displayed and 2) magazines, books or newspapers that will be read or used as a reference. For the magazines that will be displayed (such as Sports Illustrated or Sport) a higher importance is placed on the appearance of the cover. Other issues, such as Sporting News, Baseball Digest, team yearbooks, media guides, score cards, etc are usually bought to be read and enjoyed. For these issues, there is usually less of a premium placed on the pristine issues — as a magazine is “Excellent” condition is just as enjoyable to read as one in “Near Mint” Condition. Most of the issues from 1980 and newer are simply graded “Excellent/Mint or better” as most issues are in great shape and actually would grade higher than Ex/Mt. The newer Sports Illustrated Issues are listed “With Label”. These issues are in “Excellent/Mint condition or better and have a mailing label on the front. All Sports Illustrated will have a mailing label unless the condition specifically states “No Label”. The No Label issues of SI were generally purchased at the News Stand and sell for a Premium. Near Mint: (Grades a 7 on a 10 point scale) Can have 2 or 3 minor defects, but a Near Mint graded publication appears almost perfect to the naked eye; flat and clean; barely noticeable defects such as tiny wrinkles, creases or traces of use or wear.
Excellent/Mint: (Grades 6 on a 10 point scale) A highly desirable copy with just enough minor defects to keep it out the Near Mint category. Issues graded “Excellent/Mint” are very suitable for display. The SI’s will have very clean cover with some possible minor wear on the corners. The cover could have minor wrinkles or creases, but no tears. The issue still maintains most of it’s cover gloss. Magazines maintain a clean appearance and good strong spine and can easily be read.
Excellent: (5 out of 10) A solid copy with possible moderate wear. Maintains some of the original gloss; May be slightly discolored or have minor markings — especially inside the publication. Many have small tears on the cover or along the spine — but the cover is still attached. To be considered ‘Excellent”, the publication as a whole must be pleasing to eye. Publications graded “Excellent” are in average condition. The SI’s are still presentable enough to be given as gifts or displayed — especially the older issues. Excellent condition mags are great for reading or reference.
Very Good: (grades 3 or 4 on a 10 point scale). “Very Good” is a grading term, not a adjective! This grade is a distressed copy that could be heavily worn, creased, taped, stained, discolored or written on. It will have a cover (unless otherwise stated) but it may be detached. This grade is not recommended for display or to be given as a gift. Most people purchase these magazines for the content — or to remove the ads.
| 
Specials