German violin 1890s full size suit learner grades 5 to 8 plus

German violin c.1890 with an engraved scroll marked "Conservatory Violin, Dresden". This is a very well-loved violin which my parents bought for me around 1990 when I was just about to start secondary school. I played it through my teens, passed grade 8 with it, and have had many happy years with it since. I upgraded to a brand new and significantly more expensive instrument  only last year.  Violin shops I've spoken to said they would try put a violin like this one on the market at £1,500 so this is an opportunity for a great deal!

  The violin has been well-used and there are some cosmetic flaws you need to be aware of when buying. None of these affects the integrity of the instrument or your ability to play it. 

1) Build-up of resin on the fingerboard and a serial number stamped on the end of the fingerboard (I'm told this means that the instrument once belonged to the military!)

2) Wear on the corners of the upper and lower bouts, and small chips in the varnish on the belly and the back  

More details

The violin is strung with Pirastro Obligato strings (which I would recommend for this instrument, they suit it very well). Its chin-rest is attached. Also included is a new lightweight case and strap (value £35 or so in a shop).

Other items you will need to play (rosin, shoulder rest, replacement strings, a book of Kreutzer etudes) are not included but you can readily find them online.   If you are around London and would like to play the violin before purchasing it please do drop me a line using the "contact" button and I'll do my best to meet you somewhere you can have a go.   I will use a specialist courier for the delivery of the violin. I wouldn't trust the Royal Mail or most parcel services with it. The total cost of delivery will be £21.40