Updated May 4, 2026

Free violin appraisal app

A free violin appraisal app helps separate a trade violin, repair project, decorative piece, student instrument, and potentially significant maker attribution.

Supporting editorial image, not an auction lot. Use the evidence table below for market context.

Found an old violin and want to know if it matters?

Upload photos. We identify the object, check real sales, and show the right appraisal path.

Use the free screener Start an appraisal

One clear answer

Start with the full violin, label, scroll, body, back, ribs, bridge, bow, case, measurements, condition, and repair history. A label alone cannot prove a maker. Many old violins carry trade or copied labels.

Auction records are market evidence, not a final appraisal. Condition, authenticity, provenance, size, maker attribution, repairs, bow quality, case, and demand can materially change value.

Photo checklist

Full front and back, scroll, pegbox, ribs, corners, f-holes, bridge, tailpiece, saddle, endpin, label, bow, frog, case, and certificates.
Close-ups of cracks, open seams, soundpost area, neck angle, repaired breaks, varnish wear, missing parts, and replaced fittings.
Measurements, repair invoices, ownership history, and any paperwork from a violin shop or previous appraisal.

Auction evidence from Appraisily's database

Recent violin records show why maker attribution and condition matter. These examples do not prove the value of your violin.

Category	Sale	Date	Lot	Realized	What it shows
Violin	Christian McCann Auctions	Mar. 29, 2026	A vintage French violin by Michel Couturieux	AUD 1,500	Maker attribution and condition can support stronger demand.
Violin	Merrill's Auctioneers & Appraisers	Mar. 20, 2026	Early 20th c. German John Juzek violin	USD 150	Recognizable trade names still require condition and attribution review.
Violin lot	Merrill's Auctioneers & Appraisers	Mar. 20, 2026	Four 19th c. violins as found	USD 350	Age alone is not enough when instruments are sold as found.

When to use Appraisily

Use the free screener for first-pass identification and to decide whether the violin deserves deeper review. Use a professional appraisal for insurance, estate, donation, sale, or maker/authenticity questions. See the professional sample report.

FAQ

Can Appraisily identify a violin from photos?

Photos can support first-pass identification when the full violin, label, scroll, back, ribs, bridge, bow, case, and condition are visible.

Does a Stradivarius label prove a violin is valuable?

No. Many violins have copied or trade labels. A label is evidence to inspect, not proof of maker or value.

Should I repair a violin before appraisal?

Usually no. Photograph it as found before repairs, cleaning, or restringing, because condition and repairs need to be documented.

Need a first read on an old violin?

Upload photos. Appraisily identifies the violin, checks real sales where available, and shows whether a free screen or professional report makes sense.

Start with the free screener Start a professional appraisal