G- / G - Visually I would have graded this at F or P, but miracle of miracles, both sides play without skipping or sticking. The scratches are undeniably there ... the record is pretty whupped after all, but IT STILL PLAYS! Nevertheless, caveat emptor! Recorded in NYC February 25 and 26, 1924, Henry accompanies himself on Guitar and Harmonica - his guitar playing is ferocious!
NB 45s use the LP system as below.
N (78) M (LP). As new and unplayed (there are virtually no 78s that can categorically be claimed to be unplayed).
N- (78) M- (LP). Nearly Mint, but has been played. No visible signs of wear or damage.
E+ (78) VG+ (LP). Plays like new, with very, very few signs of handling, such as tiny scuffs from being slipped in and out of jackets.
E (78) VG (LP). Still very shiny, near new looking, with no visible signs of wear, but a few inaudible scuffs and scratches.
E- (78) VG- (LP). Still shiny but without the lustre of a new record, few light scratches. LP: Some wear, scratches and scuffs, but no skipped or repeat grooves.
V+ (78) G+ (LP) V+ is an average condition 78 in which scuffs and general use has dulled the finish somewhat. Wear is moderate but playing is generally free from distortion. Surface noise not overly pronounced. LP: Below average with scuffs and scratches on fewer than half the tracks. No skips or repeat grooves.
V (78) G (LP). Moderate, even wear throughout, but still very playable. Surface noise and scratches audible but not intrusive.
V- (78) G- (LP). Quite playable still, but distortion and heavy greying in loud passages. Music remains loud in most passages. Surface noise and scratches well below music level. LP: Lowest Grade. Audible scratches, etc. on more than half the tracks. Listening uncomfortable.
G+ (78). Grey throughout but still serviceable. Music begins to sound muffled. Heavy scratches.
G (78). Quite seriously worn and scratched, but music level is still higher than surface noise.
G- (78). Music still prominent, but wear and scratch damage extensive.
F (78). Most of music remains audible over surface noise, but listening now uncomfortable.
P (78). Unplayable.
NB: Damage to labels and jackets (LP) should be noted whenever present.
Abbreviations: sfc = surface; lbl = label; nap = not affecting play; scr/scrs = scratch/scratches; lc = lamination crack; cr = crack; hlc/hc = hairline crack; wol = writing on label; sol = sticker on label; fade = faded label; gr/grs = groove/grooves; eb = edge bite; ec = edge chip; ef = edge flake; rc = rim chip.
