The 5 Most Expensive Violins in the World - 2026

There have been some very exciting developments in the world of high-end violin sales so we wanted to share these with you in an updated version of our article.

Two new instruments are taking the first 2 spots and they have in common that they were both recently owned by the famous collector and philanthropist David Fulton.

1. 1690 “Tuscan, Medici” Viola, Antonio Stradivari - $30 million USD

The 1690 “Tuscan, Medici” viola by Antonio Stradivari was recently donated to the Library of Congress by collectors David and Amy Fulton along with the family of Cameron Baird in a transaction valued at around $30 million. Stradivari violas are exceptionally rare, and this is one of only about ten surviving. It has a rich history being originally commissioned for the Medici court, then making its way through prominent collectors and musicians, and including its long-standing loan to the Library. It is wonderful that this masterpiece is now publicly accessible, allowing musicians, scholars, and audiences to experience and study an instrument that might otherwise remain hidden in private hands.

2. 1715 “Baron Knoop” violin, Antonio Stradivari - $23 million USD

This record-breaking private sale of the 1715 “Baron Knoop” violin by Antonio Stradivari for $23 million, makes it the most expensive violin ever sold. Owned for over three decades by collector David L. Fulton, the instrument was crafted during Stradivari’s “golden period” and is celebrated for its exceptional tonal quality and playability, which Fulton described as unmatched. The sale surpasses previous records such as the 1721 “Lady Blunt” Stradivari and highlights both the rarity and enduring prestige of top-tier Stradivari instruments, as well as the continued strength of the high-end violin market.

3. The Messiah Antonio Stradivari - $20 million

The Messiah violin by Antonio Stradivarius is estimated to have a worth of $20 million and ranks among the most expensive violins in the world. Made in 1716, this historic instrument remains incredibly in almost perfect "like new" condition. It is a violin that has been played by many famous musicians including Nathan Milstein and Joseph Joachim. It is now part of an exhibition at Ashmoleum museum in Oxford and attracts visitors from all over the world for its excellent condition.

4. The Lady Blunt Antonio Stradivari - 15.9 million

The Lady Blunt got its nickname from Lady Anne Blunt - the daughter of Lord Byron - who bought the instrument in 1822. She gave her name to the violin because she had been told that it was one of the finest instruments ever made. In fact, it was made by Antonio Stradivari around 1716.

In virtually perfect condition, the violin sold for a record price of $15.9 million at auction in New York City.

5. The Vieuxtemps Guarneri del Gesù - 15.8 million

The Vieuxtemps Guarneri violin was once owned by the famous 19th century French composer and renowned violinist Henri Vieuxtemps. It became one of the most sought-after instruments in the world in 2016 when it sold for $15.8 million. In 2017, the Guarneri violin was given to the acclaimed violinist Anne Akiko Meyers, who has been performing on this precious violin to this day. 

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