posted on August 31, 2001 10:05:12 PM
I have a few things that I would like to list that are like new. I'm not sure about the proper term to use. What is the major difference between the two? Thanks
posted on August 31, 2001 10:38:33 PM
IMO, "mint" is the equivalent of brand new, or "new, old stock" (which is new, in the sense of never having been used or taken out of the wrapper or box, but is some years old).
"Excellent" would be near-new, virtually indistinguishable from new, etc.
The definitions depend a lot on what you sell. In some categories, such as stamps or coins and certain other collectibles, there are specific definitions you ought to know and use correctly. In the more general categories, people just hate it when you call something "mint" or "near-mint" and it's clearly been used...even a little bit. I'd be real careful about that one!
Use more than just a sentence or two, and take enough good, clear photos to demonstrate the excellence of the condition.
posted on August 31, 2001 10:47:12 PM
Whenever possible avoid the use of the word 'MINT' since it means so many different things depending on category. Be it baseball cards or china each category of collectible has a very specific definition for the word that will cause a heap of trouble if misused. For example, a baseball card may not be considered mint, even if it is still within its original wrapper. And dont think for one second that because YOU cannot find any flaws that collectors cannot.
A safe term is 'Near Mint'(N/M) which means it is as close to new looking as possible but that you will not guarantee zero flaws.
It can also allow for a few minor, but unnoticeable dings.
'Excellent' is a great term for something that is in overall great condition for its age but maybe has a little wear that is noticeable, but in far better shape than typical pieces of its era.
posted on September 1, 2001 02:31:36 AM
Mint - perfect as the day it was made. Excellent condition - not mint. If something is not new but looks like new, it is NOT mint. With some collectibles, once you take it out of the packaging, it can no longer be consider mint.
But no matter what, you should describe it so everyone understands what the condition is.
To get serious . . .
I am not sure that I would use the word mint for any item. I think Near Mint or VG+ (very good plus) might be better. That way you are covered if the bidder does find a flaw that you did not notice.
I have sold only one thing that I considered Mint and that was an LP that was never opened, never played (of course) and was never basically touched except to get it home from the store to my house. The buyer was very happy with the condition.
posted on September 1, 2001 07:35:06 AM
"Like new" is a suckers term, it vaguely describes you will receive something like you'd find it off the stores shelf. Problem is, if you were buying a collectible toy for example, many have minor damage to the packaging. So like new does not mean mint.
posted on September 1, 2001 07:51:15 AM
NIB: New in Box
NRFB: Never Removed From Box (as a Barbie in display box)
MIB: Mint In Box
Mint: Having no flaws whatsoever, may be better than store condition, refers to merchandise, box not necessarily included.
Excellent: May be minor scuffs & wear to box or display, no wear to merchandise-- except books (like store condition, which might get corner dings through handling, but remain reasonably crisp & clean, near published condition.) May be new, not necessarily. A variable, dependent on item and age.
posted on September 1, 2001 07:56:33 AM
"I think Near Mint or VG+ (very good plus) might be better."
That's fine if you're also willing to accept 10% or more discount. a 1985 Topps baseball card in near mint is not investment grade (because Mint cards are easily found) and many serious baseball card collectors would not buy it. a VG+ card would be worth 25% of a mint card.
However, 95% of collectors can't tell the difference between a near mint and mint card and pay the mint premimium price. These are the same people who leave the hobby soon after, so if you want a viable long term business, attract the deep pocket 5% serious collectors by using accurate terms.
