What Do Card Conditions Mean?
When buying Magic: The Gathering cards, you'll encounter condition grades that describe the physical state of a card. Understanding these grades helps you make informed purchasing decisions and find the best value.
The Condition Scale
NM (Near Mint)
The card looks almost newMinor edge wear or light scratches visible only under close inspectionNo creases, bends, or significant marksThis is the default condition for price guides and our ROI calculationsLP (Lightly Played)
Visible but minor wear on edges and cornersLight scratches on the surfaceMay have minor whitening on bordersTypically 10-15% cheaper than NMMP (Moderately Played)
Noticeable wear including edge wear, scratches, or scuffsMay have light creasing or minor bendsStill tournament legal in sleevesTypically 20-30% cheaper than NMHP (Heavily Played)
Significant wear and damageMay have creases, writing, or heavy scratchesCards are still recognizable and playableTypically 40-50% cheaper than NMDMG (Damaged)
Major damage such as tears, water damage, or heavy creasingMay be bent, warped, or have missing piecesOften not tournament legal even in sleevesTypically 60%+ cheaper than NMWhy We Show NM Prices
Our ROI calculations use Near Mint prices because:
Standard baseline - NM is the industry standard for price guidesConsistent comparisons - All decks are valued on the same scaleResale value - NM cards have the highest and most stable resale valueNew product assumption - Precon decks come with NM cards when purchased newWhen to Buy LP or MP
Buying lower-condition cards can be a smart budget strategy:
Good candidates for LP/MP:
Commander staples you'll sleeve and never resellCards for casual play groupsHigh-value cards where savings are substantialCards you plan to alter or customizeStick with NM for:
Cards you might resell or tradeCollectible or reserved list cardsCards with significant value appreciation potentialYour deck's most prominent cards (commanders, key pieces)Budget Optimization Tips
Check the price gap - Some cards have minimal LP discount while others have 25%+ savingsRead seller descriptions - "LP" varies between sellers; check photos when availableConsider the card's role - A sleeved Lightning Greaves looks the same as NM in playBuy smart for upgrades - Put budget savings toward better cards, not just cheaper copiesUsing Our Lowest Listing Feature
When available, we show the lowest current listing price alongside the market price. This helps you:
Spot cards currently listed below market valueFind quick deals on high-value cardsCompare actual buying prices vs. market averagesRemember: The lowest listing may be for LP or MP condition. Always verify the condition before purchasing.