We adhere to IOBA (Independent Onilne Booksellers Association) policy which includes a uniform method of stating condition. Books are typically described using standard terms such as Fair, Good, Very Good, and others. Please find the IOBA definition of these terms below.
"As New; Fine, Mint: Without faults or defects."
"Near Fine: A book approaching Fine but with a couple of very minor defects or faults which must be noted."
"[note: From here on a + or a - may be used in a grade...."
"Very Good: A book showing some signs of wear. Any defects or faults must be noted."
"Good: The average used book that is totally complete (as issued) and intact. Any defects or faults must be noted."
"Fair: A worn book that has complete text pages (including those with maps or plates) but may lack endpapers, half-title page, etc. Any defects or faults must be noted."
"Poor, or Reading Copy: A book that is sufficiently worn that its only merit is the text is complete, which must be legible. Any missing maps or plates must be noted. May be soiled, scuffed, stained or spotted, and may have loose joints, hinges, pages, etc."
The above IOBA terms will be helpful to you when reading our book descriptions, or describing your own books. Please remember that the above terms should not vary due to the age of the book -- try not to ever use the phrase "good for its age" when describing the condition of your book. Note that you may wish to use the above terms in various ways. For example, a book that is missing an illustration but at the same time is very clean and otherwise complete may be described as "missing one illustration, otherwise Good" or you will often see "else good" or "else Very Good". You may also notice that our descriptions tend to be quite specific, attaching a statement of condition to the binding and the text seperately to give you the best idea of overall condition. Of course, all of our listings include numerous photos. Our goal is to create a listing that gives you the most accurate image possible of the book in which you are interested!