What does String Instrument Insurance Cover?

String instruments are celebrated for their expressive range, refined craftsmanship, and deep-rooted cultural significance. From antique violins that echo with centuries of musical tradition to limited-edition guitars cherished by collectors, certain string instruments hold immense value—both as tools for performance and as collectable artefacts. Whether handcrafted by legendary luthiers or owned by iconic musicians, these instruments are revered for their rarity, provenance, and artistic merit.
Song string instrument examples:
Bowstring Instruments (Arco Instruments):
These are played with a bow, typically made of horsehair, that is drawn across the strings to create sound.
- Violin
- Viola
- Cello
- Double Bass

Plucked String Instruments:
These instruments create sound when their strings are plucked, either by fingers or with a plectrum.
- Guitar
- Harp
- Mandolin
- Banjo

Key models sought after by collectors:
Antonio Stradivari Violins:
Perhaps the most coveted string instruments in history, Stradivari violins—crafted in Cremona during the 17th and 18th centuries—are famed for their unparalleled tonal quality and exquisite craftsmanship. With only around 650 surviving examples, each Stradivarius is a unique and highly collectable masterpiece.

Guarneri del Gesù Violins:
Known for their powerful, dark sound, Guarneri del Gesù violins are held in the same esteem as Stradivari. Played by legendary musicians like Paganini and sought after by collectors, these instruments are rare and command record-breaking prices at auction.

Jean-Baptiste Vuillaume Violins:
A 19th-century French luthier celebrated for his precision and artistry, Vuillaume created violins that are not only outstanding instruments but also highly collectable. His models often emulate Stradivari and Guarneri patterns, making them favourites among professionals and collectors alike.

Gibson Les Paul ‘Burst’ Guitars (1958–1960):
in the world of stringed guitars, few models are more collectable than the original sunburst-finished Gibson Les Paul Standards from the late 1950s. Known for their distinctive tone and iconic status, these guitars are valued by musicians and vintage collectors around the world.

Fender Stratocaster Pre-CBS Models (1954–1965):
Early Fender Stratocasters, particularly those made before the CBS acquisition in 1965, are treasured for their build quality and historical importance. Owned by legends like Jimi Hendrix and Eric Clapton, these electric guitars are among the most sought-after string instruments in modern music history.

David Tecchler Cellos:
Crafted in the early 18th century, Tecchler cellos are admired for their robust tone and historical value. Tecchler’s Roman craftsmanship has made these instruments enduring favourites in both the concert hall and the collector’s cabinet.

Our bespoke insurance ensures your prized string instrument is fully protected. From rare violins and cellos to vintage guitars and beyond, we offer tailored coverage against damage, theft, or loss—safeguarding the integrity, value, and story of your collectable instrument for generations to come.

What else we cover

We offer extensive coverage for items across different categories, all within a single policy.