Condition Codes

This page provides definitions of the standard book condition terms used by AbeBooks. Book details can be enhanced by adding more information regarding the condition of your book within the description field and by adding a picture of your copy of the book.

New - Is defined by AbeBooks as a book which has not been previously purchased or read by a buyer. Although they are unused, it is possible for a new book to be damaged. Any defects/damage to the book should be described by the bookseller in the description field.

As New - To be used only when the book is in the same immaculate condition to which it was published. There can be no defects, no missing pages, no library stamps, etc., and the dust jacket (if it was issued with one) is perfect, without any tears.

Fine - Approaches the condition of As New, but without being crisp. For the use of the term Fine, there can be no defects, etc., and if the jacket has a small tear, or other defect, or looks worn, this should be noted.

Very Good - Describes a book that does show some small signs of wear - but no tears - on either binding or paper. Any defects require a note in the book description.

Good - Describes the average used worn book that has all pages or leaves present. Any defects require a note in the book description.

Fair - Worn book that has complete text pages (including those with maps or plates) but may lack endpapers, half-title, etc. Binding, jacket (if any), etc., may also be worn. Any defects require a note in the book description.

Poor - Describes a book that is sufficiently worn, to the point that its only merit is as a Reading Copy because it does have the complete text, which is legible.

These terms may be arbitrary, but whatever terms are employed, they may be useless or misleading unless both buyer and seller agree on what they mean in actually describing the book.