Card Condition Guide
As a collector myself, I know that the difference between a "Near Mint" and an "Excellent" card is a big deal. To keep things simple and honest on my store, I personally inspect every single card using the standards below.
- Cards under £30: I list these as Near Mint as standard. These are "pack-fresh" cards that I have moved directly from a booster pack into a protective sleeve.
- Cards over £30: I take extra time with these. I will list them as either Near Mint or Excellent so you know exactly what you are paying for. If a card doesn't meet these two standards, I generally won't list it unless it is a very rare "chase" card.
Card conditions explained:
Near Mint (NM)
This is my highest standard for "raw" (ungraded) cards.
- The Look: It looks like it was just pulled from a pack.
- The Details: It might have a tiny speck of whitening on a corner or a minor factory print line (which is very common with One Piece cards), but no visible scratches or play wear.
- My Advice: These are the cards I would personally feel comfortable sending off to be professionally graded.
Excellent (EX)
I use this grade for cards that are beautiful but have very minor imperfections.
- The Look: Still looks great in a sleeve, but has been handled or stored outside of a pack.
- The Details: It might have light surface scuffing visible under a lamp or a small amount of whitening on one or two corners. There are no creases or bends.
- My Advice: Perfect for players who want a high-end "Alternate Art" for their deck without paying the "Near Mint" premium.
Good (GD) / Lightly Played
I rarely list cards in this condition unless they are hard-to-find older cards.
- The Details: These show clear whitening on all edges and more noticeable surface scratches. They are 100% legal for tournament play in a sleeve.
Damaged (DMG)
If a card has a crease, water damage, or significant peeling, I mark it as Damaged.
- My Promise: I will always provide actual photos of the damage so there are no surprises when you open your mail.