What is the deal when grading the spine of a book? I am not talking about spine stress creases, but rather when the extreme edge of the spine where the front cover meets the back cover (usually in line with the staples) is slightly separated on the surface. If the waparound is black or dark, then you get a white line showing through because of the separation. I don't believe this is what is technically referred to as spine split, as it is only the surface of the paper which is affected. I have several magazines in my collection where this has happened, and it does not look like a handling or reading problem, as the magazines are otherwise absolutely pristine. It does however, IMO, take away a certain amount of eye appeal. I have noticed the same thing on many DVD folded inserts - it's almost as if the stress of folding the paper causes it to separate on the surface. I have seen several CGC graded magazines and comics that have achieved 9.4 and 9.6 grades with this fault present, and have purchased from reputable dealers and graders who have let this go in a high grade. I have never seen a 9.8 with the fault, however. I am guessing that graders do not count this as damage caused by handling and reading, which is why it gets by in 9.6. How do other collectors and grading experts among you view this?