Condition Guide
Every item in our collection is individually assessed and assigned a condition grade before it goes on sale. Our grading system is based on the AB Bookman standard — the recognised benchmark used by rare and collectible book dealers worldwide — adapted for the large format books and publications we specialise in.
Each grade reflects the overall condition of the item, including the dust jacket or cover where present. We grade conservatively, and where any specific defects exist, these are noted individually in the product description.
If you have questions about the condition of a specific item, get in touch and we'll be happy to help.
As New (AN)
The item is in the same condition as when it left the publisher — pristine, unread, and without any signs of handling or storage wear. Pages are clean and unmarked, the binding is tight, and the dust jacket or cover is flawless. An exceptional find, particularly for older publications.
What to expect: No damage. Possibly the faintest evidence of handling, but nothing that detracts from the item.
Fine (F)
The item is in near-perfect condition. It may have been carefully opened or briefly handled, but shows no damage, marks, or wear of any kind. The dust jacket or cover is clean and intact. At this grade, the item presents beautifully and is considered the benchmark of collectible condition.
What to expect: No damage. Possibly the faintest evidence of handling, but nothing that detracts from the item.
Near Fine (NF)
A very well preserved item with only one or two very minor defects — a small bump to a corner, the lightest rub to a jacket edge, or a barely noticeable lean to the spine. These are noted in the product description. Otherwise the item is clean, tight, and presents extremely well.
What to expect: One or two minor flaws only. Any defects are always specified.
Very Good (VG)
The item shows light signs of previous ownership and careful use, but remains in solid condition with no tears to the binding or pages. The dust jacket or cover may show minor wear — light shelf rubbing, small edge chips, or slight fading — but is present and intact. A Very Good copy is a handsome item that displays well.
What to expect: Light wear consistent with careful use. No damage to the text or plates. Any notable defects are specified.
Good (G)
A well-used copy that remains complete and fully readable. The binding is intact, all pages and plates are present, and the text is clean. The dust jacket or cover will show more visible wear — rubbing, fading, or edge wear — and may have small repairs. Considered a reading or working copy rather than a display piece.
What to expect: Visible wear throughout, but structurally sound and complete. Any significant defects are specified.
Fair (FAIR)
A worn item whose primary value is its complete contents. The binding may be weak or repaired, and the dust jacket or cover will show heavy wear or may be partially damaged. Pages and plates are all present, though endpapers or half-title pages may be missing — this is always noted. Not considered collectible condition, but a solid reference copy.
What to expect: Heavy wear. Complete content but cosmetically tired. All defects and any missing elements are specified.
Poor (POOR)
A heavily worn copy kept primarily for its content. The binding may be loose or detached, and the dust jacket or cover may be absent or significantly damaged. Pages may show soiling, staining, or marking, though all text and plates remain legible. Any missing pages or plates are always noted. We list Poor condition items only where the title is rare or otherwise hard to find.
What to expect: Significant wear and possible damage. Fully legible but not suitable for display. All defects are specified.