Antique Musical Instruments/Stefano Caponnetto Mandolin

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Expert: Jim Garber - 9/12/2009


Question

Mandolin
I have an old mandolin that I would like some info on and what do you think it is worth.  It says Catinia sicilia on it as well.

Thanks


Answer
Hi David:
I hesitate to give you any conclusive value for this since I cannot really examine it in hand. Mandolins from Catania are pretty common and are, in general valued less than ones from Naples or other parts of Italy. it is also hard to tell what condition it is in. Maybe no cracks but it is possible that the neck might need to be reset which is a relatively big operation.

In any case, this is not a high end instrument tho might be nice to play.

best
Jim

Antique Musical Instruments

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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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