Marketplace guide
Card Condition Guide
Condition is the seller's description of the physical card. It is separate from the card's printing, finish, foil pattern, authenticity, and professional grade.
Before you rely on a condition
FoilFox does not grade, authenticate, or independently inspect marketplace cards. A catalog reference image shows which card is listed; it is not a photograph of the seller's copy. Ask questions and inspect the physical card before completing a purchase or trade.
FoilFox condition tiers
Near Mint
Clean overall, with only minor imperfections. Near Mint does not mean flawless, professionally graded, or guaranteed to be pack fresh.
Lightly Played
Noticeable minor wear, such as light edge, corner, or surface wear. The card remains intact and suitable for sleeved play.
Moderately Played
More visible wear or several imperfections. The card remains readable and identifiable, without the severe structural damage described below.
Heavily Played
Extensive visible wear, which may include scuffing, whitening, dents, or creasing. The card remains readable and identifiable but is clearly well worn.
Damaged
Severe or structural defects, such as tears, major creases, water damage, peeling or delamination, ink, or alteration. Playability may be affected.
Not Assessed
The seller has not assigned a condition. Ask the seller and inspect the card before completing a transaction.
Why new listings do not use “Mint”
FoilFox uses Near Mint as the highest selectable tier for new seller drafts. An everyday visual inspection cannot support a promise that a card is flawless. Older marketplace records may still show “Mint (legacy listing),” which remains a seller claim rather than a FoilFox assessment.
Finish is a different fact
Non-foil, holo, reverse holo, and special foil patterns describe how a card was printed. They do not describe its physical condition. Confirm both the listed finish and the seller-stated condition.
Questions or a listing concern?
Use the report link on a listing or email support@foilfox.cards.