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Question
My parents bought me a mandolin from Italy many years ago. It's been mostly stored in a nice case for the last 30 years. It's in pretty good shape, except it needs a little work on the top strings pins, and some other minor repairs. It's sign inside the mandolin says among other things, Vinaccia...Rua Catalana No 53, Napoli, Anno 1889. I'm a keyboard player, and don't play string instruments regularly, and am planning on traveling. I'd like to sell it, but would not want to give it away. What do you think it's worth, and what's the best way to sell it?
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Hi Howard:
I am no longer evaluating instruments -- it is too difficult to do so and I cannot really tell what the condition is.
I would sell it on the classified ads on mandolincafe.com. They are essentially free but if it sells a donation is requested. It is the best place to reach people interested in mandolins of all kinds.
Vinaccia is one of the best and oldest of the Neapolitan makers and itnis a fine quality mandolin.
best
Jim
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| Rating(1-10) | Knowledgeability = 10 | Clarity of Response = 10 | Politeness = 10 |
| Comment | Thanks very much. I'll look into it. Best regards, Howard | ||
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Answers by Expert:
Jim Garber
Expertise
PLEASE NOTE: I will not be able to answer any questions about antique keyboards, accordions, concertinas, woodwinds, brass and percussion.
I can answer most questions on fretted instruments, my main area of expertise is in vintage mandolins, guitars and ukuleles. I also know some things about old banjos as well.
I have decided to no longer evaluate instruments -- it is very difficult without the instrument in hand. For guitars and some other American fretted instruments, I recommend the Vintage Guitar Price guide. Also, be aware that most insurance companies want written appraisals so my valuation would not work anyway.
ALSO PLEASE NOTE: it is near-impossible to accurately appraise a violin or bow remotely. If you truly want to find out what you have, you will likely need to take it to a reputable local dealer. Many of these folks will at least give you a verbal assessment of what you have after an inspection in hand and, if it is indeed worth something, can write you up a formal appraisal, usually for a fee.
If you have any questions about zithers please check the following sites:
http://www.fretlesszithers.com/ or
http://www.fretlesszithers.net/
Between the two of them, they have it all covered for any zither-like instrument.
Experience
I have been buying, selling, collecting and playing old and antique instruments for over 30 years. My recent specialty has been in European mandolins and classical and Italian mandolin music.
Organizations
Classical Mandolin Society of America, active participant on the Mandolin Cafe
Publications
Guild of American Luthiers, Sing Out Magazine,
Education/Credentials
BA, Brandeis University
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