Book Condition Guide

Book Condition Grading System

At Old Sports Auction, we carefully assess and grade all our vintage books and sporting literature to ensure you know exactly what you're purchasing. Our grading system ranges from 1 to 5, with 5 being the highest grade.

Grade 5 - Fine/As New

Books in exceptional condition, appearing unread or very gently read. Dust jacket (if applicable) is present and pristine with no tears or wear. Binding is tight and square. Pages are clean, bright, and free from marks, foxing, or discolouration. No inscriptions or bookplates.

Grade 4 - Very Good

Books showing minimal signs of careful use. Dust jacket (if applicable) may have minor edge wear or light rubbing. Binding remains tight with slight shelf wear possible. Pages are clean with perhaps very minor age-toning. May contain a neat previous owner's inscription.

Grade 3 - Good

Books showing moderate wear from reading and age. Dust jacket (if applicable) may have tears, chips, or be price-clipped. Binding is sound but may show wear to spine ends. Pages may have some foxing, age-toning, or minor marks. May contain inscriptions or bookplates.

Grade 2 - Fair

Books showing significant wear and age. Dust jacket may be damaged, torn, or missing. Binding may be loose or show significant wear. Pages may have foxing, staining, underlining, or marginal notes. Still complete and readable but clearly well-used.

Grade 1 - Poor

Books showing heavy wear or damage. Dust jacket likely missing or heavily damaged. Binding may be broken, loose, or require repair. Pages may have significant foxing, staining, tears, or missing sections. Primarily of interest for research purposes or as reading copies rather than collectibles.

Please note: Each book listing includes specific condition details and photographs showing the actual item. If you have any questions about a book's condition, please don't hesitate to contact us.