GRADING SCALE
Box/Case Grade
Rewind Grading utilizes a 10-point scale to assess and grade the physical condition of boxes/cases, cassettes/cds/vinyl records as well as any sleeves, inserts, or booklets contained inside the case. The scale starts at 0.5 and goes up in 0.5 increments to 9.0. From 9.0 to 10 the scale increases in 0.2 increments in order to more accurately hone in on the condition of those items that achieve a near-mint/mint status.
Important condition factors that can affect the overall grade will be noted on the label in order to more clearly communicate the condition defects to the collector. These condition defects include but are not limited to cracks, tears, moisture damage, cuts, and fading. At Rewind all items are evaluated by a minimum of two graders who blindly and independently assess the condition of the item before finalizing the grade. These grades utilize state of the art techniques as well as proprietary methods to accurately assess the condition of your media collectible.
Seal Grade
At Rewind Grading all sealed items are awarded a seal grade on a 5-star scale. Grades start at 1-star and increase a half star at a time. Much like in cinema the 5-star rating is highly coveted and only attained by the finest examples that survived decades with virtually no marks to show for storage or handling over that time. Below is a breakdown of the seal grades as well as a brief explanation of what you may expect to see for each. It is important to remember that any dirt or soiling on the seal can affect the grade. At Rewind Grading we offer professional services that can maximize the seal grade on your items.
5-Stars
5-Stars
A seal with this grade will be free of any rips or tears, this includes corner pokes. There should be no stickers on the seal or any indications that stickers were ever present (this only applies to retailer placed price or security stickers, hype stickers will not affect the grade assuming they are in a condition that is 5-star worthy). A seal of this condition will also not exhibit any visible scratches and may exhibit only the most minimal scuffing in a small area or two that is visible only under magnification. It is worth noting that only a small percentage of items will meet this criteria and even factory fresh items can have flaws that would cause it to place below 5-stars.
4.5-Stars
4.5-Stars
Items that achieve this grade typically fall out of the 5-star rating above due to increased scuffing or scratches that while present do not detract from the overall near pristine condition of the seal. Items with this rating may exhibit a small corner poke or two but should be free of any tears or larger corner pokes. Small seal splits at the seam may also be acceptable provided the remainder of the seal does not present other defects. This seal would only be a few small issues away from a 5-star grade.
4-Stars
4-Stars
Defects on 4-star seals will be more apparent at a glance and tend to include scratches on the seal as well as increased scuffing on a side(s) or end(s). There may also be additional corner pokes or a small tear in the seal. The tear must be minimal with no missing seal material. Seals that grade 4-stars have often been handled more but still present well for the age of the item.
3.0 - 3.5 Stars
3.0 - 3.5 Stars
Seals in the 3.0 to 3.5 range will exhibit increased wear over 4.0+ star seals. Most seals in this range will contain wide spread scuffing, scratches or snags in the seal and one or multiple tears. Seal tears without missing material will tend to be larger and may be more numerous. There may also be a tear with a smaller hole where seal material is missing. A seal in this range still almost completely covers the item with the exception of tears or small holes.
2.0 - 2.5 Stars
2.0 - 2.5 Stars
Major defects and holes will be apparent on a seal in this range. Expect items with missing seal material in numerous locations or a single larger area. Expect scuffing and heavy scratching as well. The seal may also have discoloration from stickers/adhesive or other foreign substances.
Less than 2.0 Stars
Less than 2.0 Stars
Heavy damage is expected with seals that fall into this range. Large portions of the seal may be loose or barely attached. The item is still sealed (unable to be opened without removing the plastic further) but additional handling or less than extreme care could cause the seal to further tear and fall apart. Most seals will have numerous holes and tears. Scuffing, snags and scratches are typically the least of the problems in these cases. In instances like this, Rewind Grading will make every effort to put any flaps or seal flags back into place prior to encapsulation in order to maximize its presentation in the case.