Violin And Fine Instruments Violin Appraisals
Many old violins can be worth several times what you paid for them. You can get at least two thousand dollars for the genuine article and it's not unusual to find specimens that reach upwards of ten thousand dollars. Because of the complexities involved with this type of instrument, it is best to get violin appraisals first before deciding to sell
First of all, the labels on older instruments can be a bit misleading. The famous Stradivari, Guarneri, Amati, Stainer and other makers have been copied many times over so just because your violin has that label doesn't automatically make it a keeper. This is backed up by the fact that most of the more famous ones have already been catalogued.
Even if your instrument is only a fake, it could still be worth several thousand dollars depending on its quality. There were actually many good luthiers all over Europe that purposely wrote down the names of the more famous craftsmen to make them easier to sell. Many of these fakes actually produced beautiful tones, so don't immediately write of your copy if it sounds great and is in fine condition.
If the label is in English and it clearly states where it was made, then it is probably a factory manufactured violin. If however the label is old and matches the rest of the instrument, then it could be potentially worth a lot of money. You will still have to have it appraised as no buyer would purchase it base solely on the label.
The best way to be sure about your copy is to ask a professional. You don't need to take it to an appraiser immediately, but someone who has extensive knowledge handling these instruments will be much better than no one at all. If your area has a local orchestra, ask for the opinion of the first violinist. He will have a good opinion of your instrument and will also be able to recommend you a good appraiser. If you live near a reputable music school, asking the string faculty will also be very useful.
Whenever you hire the services of a professional appraiser, always go for a written proof. It will be more expensive, but at least you will have a record of your claim as well as the references regarding how he arrived at the value.
Consider having your instrument restored or repaired. This will preserve its value and make it look more attractive to potential buyers. If you look at your total potential income, then these violin appraisals will only be a fraction of the cost.
violin appraisals
First of all, the labels on older instruments can be a bit misleading. The famous Stradivari, Guarneri, Amati, Stainer and other makers have been copied many times over so just because your violin has that label doesn't automatically make it a keeper. This is backed up by the fact that most of the more famous ones have already been catalogued.
Even if your instrument is only a fake, it could still be worth several thousand dollars depending on its quality. There were actually many good luthiers all over Europe that purposely wrote down the names of the more famous craftsmen to make them easier to sell. Many of these fakes actually produced beautiful tones, so don't immediately write of your copy if it sounds great and is in fine condition.
If the label is in English and it clearly states where it was made, then it is probably a factory manufactured violin. If however the label is old and matches the rest of the instrument, then it could be potentially worth a lot of money. You will still have to have it appraised as no buyer would purchase it base solely on the label.
The best way to be sure about your copy is to ask a professional. You don't need to take it to an appraiser immediately, but someone who has extensive knowledge handling these instruments will be much better than no one at all. If your area has a local orchestra, ask for the opinion of the first violinist. He will have a good opinion of your instrument and will also be able to recommend you a good appraiser. If you live near a reputable music school, asking the string faculty will also be very useful.
Whenever you hire the services of a professional appraiser, always go for a written proof. It will be more expensive, but at least you will have a record of your claim as well as the references regarding how he arrived at the value.
Consider having your instrument restored or repaired. This will preserve its value and make it look more attractive to potential buyers. If you look at your total potential income, then these violin appraisals will only be a fraction of the cost.
violin appraisals