Cards Condition Guide

Near Mint (NM)

Near Mint cards can be described as straight out of the booster pack. They may show very slight normal wear from handling (such as being opened from a pack). Often, these cards have never been played.

Edges are clean with no whitening. Minor nicks may be visible, especially on corners (factory cut). The front and back of the card are clean, with no scratches or marks. Cards must retain their original gloss. Nothing should make them distinguishable from other Near Mint cards in an unsleeved deck.

Foil cards may show a natural curvature. This does not impact the evaluation.

 

Lightly Played (LP) (Slightly Played / SP)

Lightly Played cards (sometimes referred to as Slightly Played – SP) have been played or handled and show minor but visible wear. Slight whitening may appear around the edges.

Light scratches, marks, or scuffs may appear on the front or back of the card, especially on Foil cards. Cards may also appear slightly dirty. Since they have been handled, they may have lost some of their original gloss.

Because they show wear that could make them distinguishable, sleeves may be required for tournament play.

 

 

Moderately Played (MP) 

Moderately Played cards have been heavily handled or played without sleeves and show noticeable wear across a significant portion, or even the entirety, of their surface.

Edges and corners may show whitening, and minor creases from shuffling may be present. Cards may appear warped. Moderate scratches, dirt, dents, and marks may appear on the front or back.

There is no doubt these cards are not Near Mint; they may appear dull or faded due to wear. Sleeves will almost always be required for play, as the wear may make them easily distinguishable from other cards.

 

Heavily Played (HP) 

Heavily Played cards have been extensively used, likely without sleeves, and show significant wear across their entire surface.

Heavy whitening on the corners and major edge wear are present. Moderate to severe creasing or warping is possible. Cards may appear dirty, dented, or marked. They often look worn and heavily faded. Cards may have been exposed to water or moisture.

Sleeves are absolutely required for play.

 

Damaged (DMG)

Damaged cards show irreversible damage that makes them easily identifiable and therefore not tournament legal, even when sleeved.

Cards may be bent, torn, have been exposed to water or fire, or may have holes or severe markings. They may also contain pen, marker, or pencil marks.