How to sell a violin?

Question

I have a violin that says "Anno 1796", which I'm assuming is when it was made, since it has been in the family for ages.

It has the name Thomas Hulin3ry in it, and with 'feif pray_' written in it, though I'm unsure of what the final letter is.

How do I go about selling this treasure, in great condition?

Also, please do not say craigslist.

Answer 1

On Ebay You Can Sell Anything? Or Try Craigs List?

Answer 2

try ebay or take it to an auction, get it valued first and it maybe possible to take it to an antiques shop becasue as you say it's been in the family for quite a long time and it's quite old and a very elegant instrument

Answer 3

You should first have it appraised so you will know how much it is worth. You might try a museum or musical instrument specialist to have the appraisal done.  They might also be able to give you advice on the best method to sell it as they would have those type contacts.

While you would get a lot more exposure by trying to sell it online, you will probably get more money for your treasure if you go through a private sale.

Answer 4

The first thing you have to do is take it to a luthier and have it appraised;  look under "violin" in the Yellow Pages.  You _cannot_ have anyone do an appraisal online;  the instrument MUST be examined, IN PERSON, but an experienced person.

Once you have the price, you can sell it by running ads (what's wrong with craigslist??), contacting teachers, even placing it at a violin shop, on commission.

But you have to determine the price, first.

Good luck!

Answer 5

First of all  you should not sell  this

antic piece.  In case you have problem

keeping  it with you, due lack of space,

spread a word  through friends  whether

any one is interested in buying.

Answer 6

The first place I would look is at a reputable violin shop.  I would start there and seek an appraisal.  Don't tell them it's for selling purposes or they may try to give a low appraisal to buy it at that price.  Say you want it for insurance reasons.

Once you have that appraisal, you may find that contacting music schools across the country may bring results of students and collectors who are interested in fine instruments.  You may also do a google search for "violin shops" and contact them with what you have, what it is appraised at, and what you are asking, and see if you can find a buyer.

A fine antique store may also be a place to sell an item.