Core factors affecting a violin’s value

There are four general criteria that are used when valuing an instrument: The maker, the age, the condition, and the relative quality of the instrument vs other similar examples from the maker, school, or time period. However, these four factors are not a checklist or scorecard, but rather a general guideline to follow when assessing the monetary value of an instrument.

If you are looking to buy or sell an antique violin, we made this article to cover the various elements of violin appraisal.

Condition matters: evaluating physical and structural aspects

If you are dealing with an old violin or an antique violin, it’s likely to have at least some wear and tear and may have undergone repairs at some point. In these cases, you’ll need to take into account any damage or deterioration as well as the quality of the repairs themselves.

Damage

Certain types of damage can affect the overall value, depending on the location and severity. For example, even a small a crack in the back of an instrument near the soundpost can be heavily devaluing, but a crack of the same size in the top of the instrument wouldn’t have the same effect. Furthermore, the quality of the repair will affect the amount of devaluation.

Repairs

Repairs factor into valuing an instrument in terms of the cost of any needed repairs and the health and quality of previous repairs . Almost every repair has a “shelf life”, and regular maintenance and reconditioning is required in order to maintain playability.

Repairing a violin can be very expensive and potentially affect its value. For example, If you have a violin of moderate value (for example, under $10,000), the cost of needed repairs could represent a larger percentage of the total value than the same repairs on a violin worth over $100,000. Conversely, a rare antique violin in poor condition may be worth less than a more common contemporary instrument with minimal repair work.

Provenance and historical significance

A common misconception is that every instrument will appreciate in value over time. Appraisers must also consider from what school or maker the instrument originates, and a variety of other factors when assessing the current value. Although not the only determining factor, age is often the starting point in the equation of determining the provenance of an instrument.

Labels and documentation

Documentation is often used to help verify, or at least narrow down, an instrument’s origin. Especially with older violins, it is important to at least have an idea of who made it or when/where is it from, who has owned it in the past, and when it changed hands. A bill of sale from previous sellers can be helpful, as reputation of past sellers can be an important factor for a savvy buyer.

As fake labels are exceedingly common, appraisers take them with a grain of salt until all the other factors are considered. Attempts are made to narrow down the general time period and region based on the instrument’s build and materials along with a review any accompanying documentation. Appraisers may need to consult with other specialists or seek a second opinion. While labels are important, especially if original, due diligence is required to properly assess older violins.

Modern vs. historical violins: market trends

In terms of price, the best instruments being made in the past 20 years do not come close to the finest antique instruments. Instruments are not liquid assets, and should be viewed more like commodities on the market. They are also collectables, and thus attract a specific types of buyer.

In the recent past, there has been a renaissance of violin making resulting in better instruments than in the previous generations. A top-level player that might have access to a prized older violin may instead opt for a contemporary one simply because it fits their needs better. These professionals will place a premium on a specific sound and playability rather than age and historic importance.

An antique violin may sell at a higher price, but verifying its attribution and finding potential buyers can be more complicated than selling a contemporary instrument.

Buying or selling: practical tips for violin owners

Have a goal

When buying and selling instruments, it’s important to establish what you’re hoping to accomplish. Every player has unique needs. Some buyers will view an instrument as an investment and not just a sound others are less interested in potential resale and simply hope to find an instrument that they can keep and play forever, or use to further their career.

Know the history

If it’s an older instrument, checking to see what repairs have been done and their quality and lifespan, could help you determine whether an instrument is an investment or a liability. In some cases, you may be OK with purchasing an instrument with the intent to fix it up, but be aware that repairs can be expensive and have the potential to seriously devalue the instrument if performed improperly.

Research the seller

If purchasing from a retailer, it’s important to understand any after purchase care they offer, from warranties to maintenance and repair. Additionally, if at some point you would like to resell, it’s good to know if the original seller will help facilitate or offer trade-in options. In the case of Johnson String Instrument, you can even try renting certain instruments before purchase.

Conclusion

Determining the value of an instrument requires more than simply looking at a label, and determining the age is only a part of the equation. Relying on expertise not only safeguards your investment but also honors the craft and history of each unique instrument.

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