A.S. Hill 1924 Seattle Violin No. 82 7/8 Size w/ German Workshop Bow & Case - Amber Red

A.S. Hill Violin — Seattle, 1924, No. 82 — Compact 7/8-Size

Early American violin with a compact Guarneri-inspired outline, amber-red varnish, German workshop bow, and fitted case

This vintage violin is labelled “A.S. Hill, Liutajio … Anno Dom. 1924 — No. 82” and is associated with Archibald Somerville Hill’s Seattle workshop period. It features a compact Guarneri-inspired body, spruce top, attractively flamed maple back and sides, ebony fittings, and a warm amber-red varnish with natural age-related character.

The body measures approximately 13 3/4 inches, placing it slightly below a typical modern full-size violin and close to what is commonly described as a 7/8-size or compact adult violin. Its smaller proportions may appeal to players who find a standard 4/4 violin slightly large while still wanting an instrument with adult proportions and string spacing.

Condition:

Well-preserved vintage condition consistent with a violin made in 1924. The varnish shows light edge wear, minor marks, and natural patina from age and use, without excessive cosmetic deterioration.

The fingerboard, nut, pegs, bridge, and soundpost are in place. The instrument presents well overall and appears ready for evaluation and personal setup. As with any century-old violin, the new owner may choose to have a luthier adjust the bridge, soundpost, strings, action, or fittings to suit individual playing preference.

Includes:

• A.S. Hill violin: Seattle, 1924, No. 82
• German workshop violin bow
• Fitted protective case
• Not Included: Shoulder rest, rosin, tuner, or additional accessories

Approximate Measurements:

• Body length: 13 3/4"
• Upper bout width: 6 1/2"
• Waist width: 4 1/4"
• Lower bout width: 8"
• Overall violin length: 23"
• Rib depth: 1 1/4"
• Measured string length: 14 1/2"
• Bow length: 29"

Measurements are approximate and were taken manually.

Included Bow:

The included bow is stamped “Germany” near the frog and is best described as an early-to-mid-20th-century German workshop or export bow.

It features an octagonal reddish-brown wood stick, ebony frog with a single pearl eye, mother-of-pearl slide, engraved nickel-silver-style fittings, and a decorative matching button. No individual maker’s brand or model marking is visible.

The bow shows normal vintage wear and age-related patina. Bow hair is present, though a player may wish to have it rehaired or serviced depending on personal preference.

Key Features:

• Maker/Label: A.S. Hill, Seattle, USA
• Date and Number: 1924, No. 82
• Approximate Size: Compact adult or 7/8-size proportions
• Pattern: Guarneri-inspired outline
• Top: Spruce
• Back and Sides: Flamed maple
• Fingerboard and Fittings: Ebony
• Finish: Amber-red varnish with golden shading and vintage patina
• Setup: Bridge and soundpost installed
• Bow: German workshop bow with octagonal stick
• Case: Fitted protective case included

Frequently Asked Questions:

Is this a full-size violin?
The body measures approximately 13 3/4 inches, making it slightly smaller than a typical modern 4/4 violin and close to a 7/8-size instrument.

Would this work for an adult player?
Yes. A 7/8-size violin is often chosen by adults with smaller hands or shorter reach who find a standard full-size violin uncomfortable.

Is this related to W.E. Hill & Sons of London?
No. The label identifies A.S. Hill of Seattle, associated with American violin maker Archibald Somerville Hill.

Is the included bow French?
No. It is stamped “Germany” and is best described as a German workshop or export bow.

Is the violin playable immediately?
The bridge and soundpost are in place. A luthier setup may still be desirable to adjust the strings, bridge, soundpost, and action for the new player.

Are there any major structural problems?
No major structural concerns are noted in the current description. Buyers of vintage instruments may still choose to have a luthier inspect the violin before extended professional use.