Excellent Very Old Antique English Violin-No Reserve!!!

There is also a penciled repair inscription and penciled initials inside the back that looks like Walmsly and is dated 1918.

I don't know for sure if this is really a violin made by Thomas Smith or not.  It is the right age and the right style-the model, workmanship, materials and finish are all consistent with violins made during that time and period.  However, I have never personally seen a Thomas Smith violin as they are very rare.  Some of the violin photo archives have excellent photos of Thomas Smith violins and this violin bears a very strong resemblence both in model and detail.  While I cannot guarantee this violin's authenticity I can find no evidence to convince me that it is not. 

The violin is in great condition for its age.  It has major wear but no significant damages or repairs. There are only a few minor cracks on the top-nothing anywhere near the soundpost areas. The back, neck and ribs are undamaged. Any damage and repairs can be seen in the photos.  This is a violin that has been played for over 200 years and has the nicks and scratches to show for it. There are some chipped corners, some bits of replaced edge, and well-worn C bouts.  But for all its use and wear, there is no significant damage or major repairs.  While it is somewhat unusual to find a 100 year-old violin in similar condition, it is nearly impossible to find a very old violin like this that has survived without major resortation.

The violin has a very dark, deep and rich tone.  It is quite viola-like in its character and while it has a full, booming and powerful sound, it is really unique in its depth and exceptional warmth. While this is very far from a shy violin, its personality is less of a brilliant, penetrating or dominant nature than an enveloping and expansive cascade of warmth and smooth dulcet resonance.  This violin sounds like liquid velvet, blending qualities of hot chocolate and thick molasses.  For a player who loves a really deep tone, and prefers soulful warmth and rich sonority to a bright and piercing sound this violin will delight. I have held onto this one for much longer than most and will certainly be sad to see it go.  It isn't anything like most of the stuff out there.

The starting bid is $49 and there is no reserve!  I sell nearly all of my violins on eBay this way.  This violin will sell to the highest bidder regardless of price.  This is a very good violin that I know will be properly appreciated by knowledgeable buyers.