Book Condition Guide

  • As New  means that the book is in the state that it would generally be on purchase from a book store new.
  • Fine (F or FN) is As New but allowing for the normal effects of time on an unused book that has been protected. A fine book shows no damage.
  • Very Good (VG) describes a book that is worn but untorn. Any defects will be noted.
  • Good (G) describes the condition of an average used worn book that is complete. Any defects will be noted.
  • Fair shows wear and tear but all the text pages and illustrations or maps are present. It may lack endpapers, half-title, and even the title page. All defects will be noted.
  • Poor describes a book that has the complete text but is so damaged that it is only of interest to a buyer who seeks a reading copy. 
  • Ex-library copies will always be designated as such no matter what the condition of the book.
  • Binding Copy describes a book in which the pages or leaves are good, very good or fine, but the binding is very bad, loose, off or non-existent.