Book Condition/Decriptions
  • As New (AN)  The book is in the same immaculate condition in which it was published. There can be no defects, no missing pages, no library stamps, etc., and the dustjacket (if it was issued with one) must be perfect, without any tears. 
  • Fine (FN) or Excellent (EX)  There must be no defects, etc., and if the jacket has a small tear, or other defect, or looks worn, this will be noted.
  • Very Good (VG)  A used book that does show some small signs of wear - but no tears - on either binding or paper. Any defects must be noted.
  • Good (GD)  Describes the average used and worn book that has all pages or leaves present. Any defects must be noted.
  • Fair (FR)  A worn book that has complete text pages but may lack endpapers, half-title, etc. (which must be noted). Binding, jacket (if any), etc. may also be worn. All defects must be noted.
  • Poor or Reading Copy (RC)   Describes a book that is sufficiently worn that its only merit is as a Reading Copy because it does have the complete text, which must be legible. Any missing maps or plates should still be noted. This copy may be soiled, scuffed, stained or spotted and may have loose joints, hinges, pages, etc.
  • Ex-library (ELor Ex-lib)  copies must always be designated as such no matter what the condition of the book.
  • Book Club (BC) editions must always be noted as such no matter what the condition of the book.
  • Binding Copy (BD) describes a book in which the pages or leaves are perfect but the binding is very bad, loose, off, or nonexistent.
  • Dustjacket (DJ)  In all cases, the lack of a dustjacket should be noted if the book was issued with one.

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