The Most Expensive Violins in the World
Violins have long been coveted for their beauty, but they also come with a price tag that can break the bank. Despite that, these bowed string instruments are still beloved by music lovers around the world and continue to inspire musicians and non-musicians alike.
Most of the world’s most expensive violins in the world are kept in a museum or on loan to famous virtuosos so that they can be preserved for future generations. While these instruments aren’t played often, they are cared for with the utmost precision and attention to detail. But why do these rare and precious instruments command such a high price tag? There are many reasons why these special violins remain so popular.
Top 10 Most Expensive Violins and What Makes Them Priceless
The most expensive violins in the world are worth millions of dollars. Some are even older than the United States of America! These violins are often called the best in the world because of their renowned craftsmanship.
The Messiah Stradivarius is a perfect example. It was crafted by Antonio Stradivari in 1714 and has been valued at $20 million or more. This instrument has been passed down through a number of famous owners.
The Messiah was once owned by the famous English violinist John Carrodus. It has also belonged to the virtuoso Yehudi Menuhin. One of the more recent famous owners of this masterpiece is Anne Akiko Meyers. Meyers is known for being a ferocious violinist who has purchased and plays numerous valuable instruments. In fact, Meyers bought the earlier mentioned Molitor Stradivarius, and was also gifted the “ex-Kochanski” Guarneri del Gesu to use for the rest of her life by an anonymous buyer.