Function over form, within reason. A scratch here or there isn't a big deal. Peeling veneer? Not an issue. But, anything cosmetic will affect resale if you go that route as most humans are form over function. People buy cars and dogs and all manner of things simply because of how they look. Why do you think D'Agostino makes the audio jewelry? So he can charge a lot more for it. Put all that in a plain black box and it wouldn't sell nearly as well at the prices he charges.
When buying used speakers are cosmetics important to you?
I have an opportunity to buy a pair of used Totem Element Metal speakers that retail at $20k for $5k. They are flawless from a performance perspective but have cosmetic imperfections such as surface scratches that are not visible from the listening position, thus the price.
How important are cosmetics to your purchase of used speakers?