> You don't spend rare coins and you don't post > mail with rare stamps. If a part is shopworn and also > listed as mint, it will still perform its function as > if it just arrived from the factory. Richard, If coins/stamps aren't related closely enough to bicycles for your tastes, how about cameras? In fact, I'm sure I was on a camera auction Web site when I noticed the rating system that I think would best apply to classic bicycle stuff. In that system (as with every system I've seen used to seriously grade a collectable item) Mint meant unused and essentially perfect cosmetically. NIB is a specialization of Mint - i.e. unused and in the original packaging. There was a Near Mint category for items that are unused but with _very_ mild blemishes. I suppose that the Simplex derailleur which prompted this discussion would be considered Near Mint. No doubt a shop worn but unused item will function as well as a cosmetically perfect one. But cosmetic damage (that's what shop wear is) reduces the value of any item. Otherwise why should a manufacturer even bother to package items like cranksets so as to prevent scratches during transit? Best regards, Fred Rednor - Arlington, Virginia
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