GRADE: MINT
Abbreviated Notation: MT
Overstreet Numerical Equivalent (ONE) range: 100-98
(Highest possible MT grade = 100, Mid-grade = 99, Lowest possible MT grade = 98)
GRADE DESCRIPTION:
Near perfect in every way. Only the most subtle printing or bindery defects allowed. Cover is flat with no surface wear. Cover inks are bright with high reflectivity and minimal fading. Corners are cut square and sharp. Small, light pencilled, stamped
or inked arrival dates are acceptible as long as they are in an unobtrusive or aesthetical location. Staples must be original and are generally centered and clean with no rust. Books signed on the inside do not detract from this grade. Cover is well centered
and firmly secured to interior pages. Paper is supple and like new. Spine is tight and flat.
CHECKLIST FOR THE GRADE MINT:
- Near perfect in every way.
- No printing defects.
- No bindery defects.
- Cover is flat with no surface wear.
- Cover is bright.
- Cover is generally well centered.
- Staples are clean with no rust.
- Spine is flat and tight (no spine roll).
- Minute color fading is acceptable.
- No soiling, staining, or other discoloration.
- No hint of acidity in the odor of the newsprint.
- The overall look of a Mint condition comic book is
- "As if it was just purchased from the newsstand."
Note: Comic books published before 1970 in Mint condition are extremely scarce. This grade is one of the least understood and most abused of all comic book grades.
COLLECTOR ALERT:
Collectors should thoroughly examine any book touted to
be in this grade. Further, they should be carefully scrutinized for restoration.
COLLECTOR ALERT:
Expensive/key comic books listed as being in "high grade"
often have some restoration. In most cases restoration performed on otherwise mint books will reduce the grade. A near mint comic book cannot be transformed into a mint comic book through restoration.
WEB AUTHOR NOTE:
Certain pedigree copies (Mile High Collection, for example) will fetch prices higher than the 100% MINT price. Price will be determined by the demand. RESTORED comics are NOT the same as UNRESTORED and should not be considered in the same grading category. "Pristine Mint" was a term used for above & beyond the MINT condition. It's generally not used much anymore as pedigree books are now considered the cream of the crop.
Mint |
Near Mint |
Very Fine |
Fine |
Very Good |
Good |
Fair |
Poor