Graded with the collector's eye — condition is everything
Our Grading Standard
We grade every toy against the widely used collector's scale below. The grade always refers to the toy itself; packaging is described separately (e.g. "toy NM, box VG").
| Grade | What it means |
|---|---|
| C-10 Mint | Museum quality. Essentially as manufactured: no visible wear, original packaging in outstanding condition. Very rare for true vintage toys. |
| C-9 Near Mint | Appears untouched apart from very light handling. Original box may show minor shelf wear. |
| C-8 Excellent | Minor wear only: tiny paint rubs, light scratches. Fully original and complete. Functions normally. |
| C-7 Very Good | Visible play wear but structurally sound. Paint loss limited to edges/corners. All parts present and working. |
| C-6 Good | Honest played-with condition. Scuffs, scratches or paint wear expected; may have non-structural repairs. Functions or is restorable. |
| C-5 & below | Heavy wear or damage; may be incomplete or non-functional. Sold only for restoration or parts — always priced accordingly and described in detail. |
❧ ✦ ❧
Reading a Listing
- Original: all parts are as manufactured, nothing replaced.
- Restored: professional conservation work performed; details listed.
- Repaired: practical fix (e.g. glued seam, replaced string); disclosed and visible in photos.
- Tested: wind-ups, lights and electronic functions have been operated and work.
- Untested: cosmetic condition assessed only — functions sold as-is (rare, and noted).
Packaging Grades
Boxes and packaging are graded separately: Mint, Excellent, Very Good, Good, Poor. Packaging is only included in the price when stated.
Questions about condition? Photographs are part of the condition report. If a detail matters to you — a seam, a sticker, a battery compartment — ask for close-up photos before you buy. We are always happy to oblige.
Images shown for illustration from Wikimedia Commons contributors.