Where can I find information about old violins and where they come from?

My grandfather bought me a violin at an auction. The person who was holding the auction asked for it back because it went for $50. He said that it was an antique violin from the 1880s. I don’t know if I can trust this source of information. The case has a GSB Violin Case emblem on the bottom. Where can I find information? I am desperate in finding correct info on this violin.

It is nearly impossible — actually it is impossible — to appraise an instrument via verbal description, even if accompanied with photographs — over the internet.

What you should do is take it to a reputable luthier. A luthier is a person who repairs, in some cases makes, and also appraises stringed instruments. There is usually one or more in every community. I would not indicate that you might want to sell it but rather, tell them you want to have it appraised for insurance purposes. Sometimes there is a small fee associated with this service, like $20, but they might do it for free.

See:
Requests to appraise an instrument

http://beststudentviolins.com/StringCareSpecs.html#2

An excellent resource for your violin lessons need.

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