Why Are Old Violins So Expensive?

Geographical origin is the most important thing (Italian violins sell for at least six times the price of a comparable French or English violin, and German violins lag far behind). The other factors would be the quality of the craftsmanship (how well regarded the maker is) and the age of the instrument.

Are old violins better?

Old Italian violins are deemed the king of all violins. ... Most of the violinists in the study went in with the notion that old is better than new, according to Giora Schmidt, a solo violinist who played old Italian instruments like Stradivarius for most of his career.

Is an old violin worth anything?

In fact, the vast majority of old violins that people find tucked away in attics and closets are not worth much. Or anything. Even if the label says "Stradivarius". ... So that "valuable" old violin may not be so valuable in a decrepit condition.