Card Conditions Guide
When it comes to individual cards, the condition they are in plays a fundamental role. At the same time, this very aspect is often the cause of doubts and misunderstandings.
To avoid ambiguity and offer maximum transparency, we have created this guide: here you will find the precise criteria we use to evaluate the status of the cards, both when we define a price for the purchase, and when we put an item on sale.
If you intend to purchase from our catalog or want to offer us your cards, this classification represents the reference standard on which we can base ourselves mutually.
MINT (MT)
A card graded Mint is in perfect condition, just as if it were fresh out of the pack. It must not show any visible marks on the front or back, and it must not have undergone any modifications. Any signatures or stamps, even if official, prevent this classification, even if the card appears perfect in every other respect.
Near Mint (NM)
Near Mint describes a card that may have slight imperfections or small marks, but in very small quantities and sizes. The card should appear overall clean, with only minimal white spots or imperceptible stains tolerable. The presence of scratches, however, always excludes a Near Mint rating.
This grade corresponds to the American NM/M classification.
Excellent (EX)
A card in Excellent condition will show obvious signs of wear at first glance, but these are only minor and superficial damage. There may be small stains or discoloration along the edges and corners, and scratches will only be visible upon closer inspection. If the scratches are deep or immediately recognizable, this rating cannot be given.
This condition corresponds to the American grades Slightly Played or Lightly Played .
Good (GD)
Despite its name, the Good grade refers to cards that show obvious signs of wear across the entire surface. Edges and corners may have numerous white spots, while scratches and dirt are often visible. This damage is usually due to use during play. However, creases, liquid damage, or structural changes do not fall into this category and result in a lower grade. Cards in Good or lower condition are never considered suitable for play without sleeves, as they are easily recognizable.
This condition corresponds to the American standards Moderately Played or Very Good .
Light Played (LP)
A card in Light Played condition shows obvious signs of heavy use, typical of prolonged use without protection such as sleeves. Damage is more noticeable than in Good condition, but must not be the result of intentional alterations, such as inked edges or pen writing. Despite wear, these cards are generally considered playable, as long as they are used with sleeves.
This condition corresponds to the American grades Played or Good .
Played (PL)
Played represents the maximum level of wear a card can get due to just being used without protection. Damage is extensive and can compromise the ability to use the card in official tournaments, even if inserted in protective sleeves. However, intentionally altered cards, such as those with colored borders or pen writing, do not fall into this category.
This condition corresponds to the American classification Heavily Played or Good .
POOR (POOR)
A card in Poor condition has obvious damage beyond normal play. Structural creases, intentional alterations such as inked edges, writing, or other detrimental changes fall into this category. Because of these defects, cards graded Poor are often considered unsuitable for official tournament play.
This condition corresponds to the American Poor grading.
Altered
A card classified as Altered has undergone manual alterations, usually for artistic or decorative purposes. These alterations often involve the artwork, such as extensions of the original artwork or other custom visual changes.
Signed
The term Signed refers to a card that has a significant signature linked to its identity. In most cases, this is the autograph of the artist who created the original illustration.