Rating and value of classical and Stradivarius violins

If you own a violin and would like to know its value, our state-approved experts and auctioneers can help you. Our specialists will carry out a free appraisal of your instrument, and provide you with a precise estimate of its current market value.

Then, if you want to sell your violin, we'll point you in the right direction to get the best possible price for it. 

Rating and value of a violin

The violin is a much-practiced instrument throughout the world, often found in auction rooms. The making of a violin represents a true artistic technique. Still very much in vogue today, this instrument maintains a certain value at auction.

So it's not uncommon to find violins on the auction block. However, to sell a violin at a good price, you need to know whether it is handcrafted or mass-produced.

On the market, the brand name or maker of the instrument is a determining factor in its value. This criterion determines its provenance and the quality of its manufacture. Just because a violin is old doesn't mean it's more expensive.

Some prestigious violins can fetch hundreds of thousands of euros at auction. An example is a Stradivarius violin that sold for over €122,000 in 2021. 

Order of value from simplest to most prestigious

The history of the violin

The violin is a bowed string instrument that first appeared in Italy in the 16th century. This instrument is actually an evolved version of the medieval fiddle, with the addition of a longer neck and a larger resonance box.

Popular throughout Europe, the violin was used by famous Baroque and Classical composers such as Mozart and Bach.

Over the years, the violin has continued to develop with new lutherie techniques. Today, it remains a highly appreciated instrument in classical music, and is used in other musical genres such as jazz, folk and rock.

Why choose auctions to sell this type of instrument?

In addition to musical instrument collectors, who regularly buy this type of object, private individuals can also choose to purchase them in this way. Just because a musical instrument is bought second-hand doesn't necessarily mean it's of poor quality - quite the contrary.

Like all rare products, quality violins sometimes require a great deal of research in order to own one - the stores selling them can be geographically distant, or the waiting times to own them excessively long.

An auction guide is available on our website to help you understand how our estimate request system works. In the same way as antique paintings or Japanese porcelain, your violins can be the subject of a free, simple and secure estimate request.

The fame of Stradivarius violins

Stradivarius violins are musical instruments made by the famous Italian violin maker Antonio Stradivari (1644-1737). Stradivarius violins are considered the most precious and coveted instruments in the world, thanks to their exceptional craftsmanship and remarkable sound.

The sound of Stradivarius violins is often described as rich, deep, powerful and balanced. Many great violinists, such as Niccolò Paganini and Itzhak Perlman, have contributed to their renown.

What makes Stradivarius violins so unique and precious remains a mystery. Many theories have been put forward, including aspects such as the quality of the wood used, the manufacturing techniques, the special varnish, the shape of the soundbox and even the impact of climate on the instruments.

Today, Stradivarius violins are extremely rare and highly sought-after. Their price can reach thousands of euros at auction, and they are often used by virtuoso musicians, who appreciate their exceptional sound and historical value. 

Recognizing a Stradivarius violin 

All Stradivarius violins have a label inside the soundbox, visible through the instrument's soundholes. Here's a first example:

Nevertheless, many fake labels are circulating on the market. It is also common for some violins to be made in the style of a Stradivarius, so this is specified on the label.

It is therefore important to entrust your instrument to an expert to be sure of the value of your property.

Appraising your property

If you own a violin and would like to know its value, don't hesitate to request a free appraisal by filling in our online form. A member of our team of experts and certified auctioneers will contact you to provide an estimate of your violin's market value.

If you're thinking of selling your work, our specialists will also guide you through the various alternatives available to obtain the best possible price, taking into account market trends and the specific features of each item.