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The Taxidermy Store's Grading System

World's First and Foremost Taxidermy Grading System

© 2011-2023 The Taxidermy Store, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
We developed the world's first Taxidermy Grading System to help our clients take the guess-work out of choosing the right quality taxidermy piece. Divided into seven categories, our system is the most trusted in the Industry, backed by 100+ years of combined Taxidermy Expertise among our employees.
Grades are assigned to each item based on our knowledge of the industry as a whole, starting back in 1969. From serious world-class specimen collectors to first time buyers, we can help you find just the right item to meet your needs!
We grade each item based on its collective overall characteristics, including the following: horn/antler size, hair condition, skin integrity, coloration, and trophy size. Taxidermy criteria studied includes: anatomical accuracy, expression & pose, components used in fabrication, preservation methods and overall taxidermy quality. Each category, when present, is carefully considered before a grade is assigned and recorded on the item's individual Grade & Specifications Certificate (GSC).



World Class


World Class


In order to achieve our highest and most prestigious ranking, the item listed must pass inspection as the finest example of its type. Virtually no imperfections will be seen in this category.

Quick Overview:
- Taxidermy quality will be world-class / museum ready.
- All attributes will be of exceptional quality & Record Book Class when applicable.
- Estimate: 5% of Taxidermy items qualify to receive this ranking.

Recommendation: The World Class category is set aside for the serious collector or decorator who require the highest tier of products available. World Class items can stand alone as a centerpiece in any museum exhibit or taxidermy showcase. Choose this category when you require nothing less than, quite literally, the best of the best.


Elite


Elite


Items listed in the Elite category are some of the highest quality products available in the market. The Elite ranking demands paramount quality, with only the slightest naturally occurring imperfections tolerated.

Quick Overview:
- Taxidermy quality is Elite, showing fine detail in craftsmanship.
- All attributes will be of superior quality and trophy-class when applicable.
- Estimate: 10% of Taxidermy items qualify to receive this ranking.

Recommendation: This category is ideal for the refined collector or decorator looking for a top quality, premium item that is sure to be the centerpiece of any room or collection. Our most fastidious collectors often build their collections with items ranked Premier or higher.


Premier


Premier


Items listed in the Premier category are very high quality products available in the market. The Premier ranking demands fantastic quality, with only a few naturally occurring imperfections tolerated.

Quick Overview:
- Taxidermy quality is Premier, showing great detail in craftsmanship.
- All attributes will be of great quality and near trophy-class when applicable.
- Estimate: 15% of Taxidermy items qualify to receive this ranking.

Recommendation: This category is ideal for the refined collector or decorator looking for a top quality, premium item that is sure to be the centerpiece of any room or collection. Our most fastidious collectors often build their collections with items ranked Premier or higher.


Excellent


Excellent


Items listed in this category are sure to meet or surpass the quality of common products found in the popular market. Typically, only small, natural imperfections like scars or blemishes will be tolerated in this category.

Quick Overview:
- Taxidermy quality is Excellent, with great attention to detail.
- All attributes will be of fine quality and above average for the species/type.
- Estimate: 20% of Taxidermy items qualify to receive this ranking.

Recommendation: This category is ideal for the collector or decorator looking for a high quality item without the premium price tag. This is one of our most popular categories and comes with our highest recommendation for the typical decorator or collector.


Nice


Nice


Items ranked in this category are some of the most common items found in the market. These products will display good quality with just a few imperfections, scars, or range marks.

Quick Overview:
- Taxidermy quality is average and common throughout the marketplace.
- All attributes will be of standard quality and average size.
- Estimate: 20% of Taxidermy items qualify to receive this ranking.

Recommendation: This category is ideal for the collector or decorator looking for one of the best quality-to-price ratios we offer. Choose this category (or higher) for your weekend cabin, restaurant, man-cave or business. This is one of our most popular categories.


Fair


Fair


If ranked in this category, the item may have several naturally occurring flaws and/or imperfections, but still maintains good overall integrity and craftsmanship.

Quick Overview:
- Taxidermy quality is below average, but still maintains integrity.
- Attributes may be slightly lower-grade or below average in size/quality.
- Estimate: 15% of Taxidermy items qualify to receive this ranking.

Recommendation: This category is ideal for the collector or decorator looking for the best possible price while still getting a fair overall quality mount. The fair grade ranking should not deter any collector or decorator from a one-of-a-kind piece.


Vintage


Vintage


To be ranked in this category, the item will have a vintage styling. Vintage items should not be assumed as poor, as these items may have previously been higher in quality. Components used in fabrication will also be of vintage or retro style.

Quick Overview:
- Taxidermy work is vintage or retro styled and varies in overall appearance.
- Attributes may vary greatly in size, shape, and color in this category.
- Estimate: 15% of Taxidermy items qualify to receive this ranking.

Recommendation: The vintage classification usually refers to the product's age, not necessarily its quality. These pieces are ideal for the vintage collector with an eye for a unique or one-of-a-kind piece. The classic look and retro appearance of vintage items have made this category increasingly popular among our clients.
The Taxidermy Store (715) 445-6207 © 2013-2023 The Taxidermy Store, Inc. All Rights Reserved.