What does “very good plus” mean?

What it means

"Very Good Plus" (VG+) is a specific grading tier, most commonly aligned with the Goldmine Standard. It signifies a record in excellent physical condition, superior to "Very Good" (VG) but not meeting the criteria for "Near Mint" (NM). For vinyl, VG+ means the playing surface is clean, with grooves free from significant scratches or audible surface noise. Minor scuffs or hairline marks may be present but do not impede playback quality. The sleeve condition for VG+ typically shows minimal shelf wear, light scuffing, or slight ring wear, but no major tears or heavy creasing. This grade represents a high-quality, playable copy suitable for most dedicated listeners and collectors who prioritize sound over absolute pristine condition.

What it does to price

VG+ commands a significant premium over VG copies. Generally, a VG+ pressing will fetch 1.2x to 2x the price of a VG copy of the same pressing, depending on demand and rarity. Factors pushing the price up include minimal visible wear on the sleeve edges and a near-silent playback experience. Factors pulling the price down include heavy ring wear or noticeable, though non-skipping, surface scuffs. For example, a common album might sell for $15 in VG, but a clean VG+ copy could easily reach $25-$30.

How to spot it

Spotting VG+ requires close inspection. For the vinyl, look under strong light for deep scratches or swirl marks that catch the light significantly; these indicate a lower grade. For the sleeve, examine the corners for sharp, crisp edges, not rounded or dog-eared. Ask sellers for high-resolution photos of the vinyl surface and the sleeve corners. A common mistake is mislabeling a VG copy as VG+. Conversely, some records graded NM may actually be VG+ if the grading is overly generous. Always cross-reference the stated grade with the visible condition, especially on high-demand titles.

Buying smart

Paying a premium for VG+ is worthwhile when the record is a highly sought-after pressing, a rare variant, or if the buyer intends to listen to it frequently. If the record is a common, low-demand title, the jump in price from VG to VG+ may not justify the extra cost. A fair deal for a VG+ copy is one where the price increase over a VG copy is proportional to the visible improvement in condition—a 20-30% increase is often reasonable for a clear jump in grade.

Selling smart

When listing a VG+ record, the description must substantiate the claim. Generic descriptions invite lowball offers. To maximize buyer confidence and price realization, include at least two specific photos: one showing the vinyl spinning (if possible, demonstrating minimal noise) and one close-up of the sleeve corners. The single most effective word in the listing description is "lightly played" or "excellent surface condition," as this directly supports the VG+ designation and justifies the higher asking price.