Violin Forum/Message Board

[Yaquina]

Hello all,

I am just now learning to play and look forward to taking part in this wonderful forum. I am a beginner when it comes to playing, but have done a number of violin restorations through the years. I work as a museum exhibit builder and artifact preservationist/restorer.

I recently got this violin in a trade and was hoping that someone here might be able to give me some information about it. This is what I know so far...

The label inside says "Special Copy of Dominicus Montagnana, manufactured in Berlin." Then the label is stamped with "L&H. Berlin" There is no date or serial number that I can see.

The only paperwork that came with it were two very old appraisals, both dated 1979. One gave a value of $750, the other $1100.

There is a crack on the face that apparently was repaired many many years ago. The repair that was done works fine, but it not terribly pretty. I think I could clean the repair up a bit and help it blend better into the original finish.

Below are some photos of the violin and the case and bow. So what do you think this could be worth? Any thoughts?