1916 Salvadore de Durro violin

August 8, 2010 at 09:28 PM ·

What is a Salvadore de Durro violin from around 1916 worth ? My grandfather played violin in the Chicago Symphony Orchestra in the 1920's. I have a photo of him as a young boy holding this violin. It's in pretty nice shape and one of the bows in the case looks really, really old.

I know the best way is to have it formally appraised by an expert, but I'm just trying to get an approximate idea. This is my first post here, and I am just looking for some good advice. I don't see an actual date, but there are two numbers - 16 that are clearly visible inside and apart from all the other writing. I did a google search of Durro violins and have read everything I can find. They were made in Germany and imported to the USA by a shop in New York. There is what looks to be a handwritten signature - "Salvadore de Durro". Thanks for your help.