'Hammer' Stradivarius
The 'Hammer' Stradivarius is a violin crafted in 1707 during Antonio Stradivari's golden period of instrument making. Named after a 19th-century Swedish collector who held it, the instrument boasts a well-documented ownership history that traces its provenance across centuries. Its construction during the early 18th century places it among the most prized examples of Stradivari's work, a period when the Italian luthier's violins achieved their characteristic tonal qualities and structural refinement.
The 'Hammer' achieved prominence in the contemporary market on November 8, 2006, when it was sold at public auction for approximately US$3.54 million. At the time, this sale established a world record for a Stradivari violin sold at auction. The substantial price reflected both the instrument's maker, provenance, and the competitive demand among collectors and institutions for authenticated examples from Stradivari's most celebrated years.
The record held by the 'Hammer' was subsequently surpassed in 2011 by the 'Lady Blunt' violin, which achieved a higher auction price. Nevertheless, the 'Hammer' remains a significant benchmark in the public sale history of Stradivari instruments, demonstrating the market value placed on well-documented violins from the maker's most productive and tonally refined era.
Sources: Tarisio — Cozio Archive of stringed instruments. Educational information only — not financial, investment, or appraisal advice. See our sources & fact-check policy.
Frequently asked questions
What is the the hammer Stradivarius?
It is a Stradivari violin made in 1707 (golden period). Set the auction record in 2006.
How much is the the hammer worth?
Reported value/sale: ≈ US$3.54M (2006 auction). This is market history, not an appraisal or investment advice.
Where is the the hammer Stradivarius now?
Private.
Why is it called the the hammer?
Christian Hammer, a 19th-century Swedish collector.
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