[Closed] I know this question has probably been asked before. With reference to the auction, what is the

To define the terms, it's almost like asking what is pornography? "I know it when I see it."

Ken, that's a tough question. 'Most' guys think it goes something like this...

- 'new in box'.....never opened or inspected. As delivered from mfg.
- 'mint in box'...has been opened, inspected, and even displayed (usually in a case) and deemed 'at least' near perfect.

BUT...opinions vary! LOL!

He's my view on it - 'mint in box.....never opened or inspected. As delivered from mfg.
- ''new in box'...has been opened, inspected, and even displayed (usually in a case) and deemed 'at least' near perfect.

New in box = never opened, never sold retail, never inspected thus could be busted up inside. NEW.

Mint in box = in the same condition as the day it was made, but could be years old and had a dozen owners. Could describe new or used. JMHO

Here's what our auction guidelines say...

HOW DO I DESCRIBE THE CONDITION OF MY MODEL?

New in Box= Unopened in sealed original box.

Mint In Box = A model is considered to be in Mint condition when there are no broken or missing pieces, paint blemishes, fading, poorly functioning operating features, misaligned parts, extraneous glue marks from poor assembly or signs of owner neglect, such as significant dust accumulation or tobacco stains/odor. Unless a replica is closely inspected for fit and finish when it is received, even a brand new issue may not be in Mint condition. All paperwork, box and packing material originally included when New in Box should be present in good condition. Displaying the model does not automatically preclude it from being considered an MIB model.

Excellent= A model is considered to be in Excellent condition when minor imperfections exist that require only mild remediation to restore the model to Mint condition, such as cleaning mild dust buildup, or buffing paint surfaces. Missing paperwork or significant packing material would also place a model otherwise in Mint condition in this category.

Good= A model is considered to be in Good condition when moderate effort is required to restore the model to Mint condition, such as cleaning heavier dust buildup, removing mild scratches, fixing poorly functioning operating features, or re-gluing present but unbroken parts.

Poor= A model is considered to be in Poor condition when major effort is required to restore the model to Mint condition such as removing deep scratches, repairing or replacing broken or lost pieces, or full disassembly of the model to repair major build flaws. This is what also may be referred to as a Parts car, serving as a source of spare parts or a starting point for a major rework.