The Gibson V-50, as described in the flyer below came second to the V-100 in craftsmanship. Although the two pieces were very similar, there were small nuances.
Following is a word-for-word excerpt for both violins:
"V-50 Violin......$50.00
A professional model with precision hand graduated top ; finest maple and spruce used. Ebony dingerboard, tailpiece and end pin. Gibsonite pegs ; flake grain bridge ;
double post Gibson comfort chin rest of coffee wood. Rich shaded antique brown finish. A well rounded tone, brilliant and pleasing."
"V-100 Violin......$100.00
Truly, an instrument for the artist, combining the finest in materials and hand work. Every part is perfect with all accessories of genuine ebony of Gibson design ;
flake grain bridge ; ebony fingerboard, tailpiece, end pin and pegs. Shaded amber brown finish."
Above is a comparison of the flame and curl in three of Gibsons prewar orchestral instruments. On the left is the flamey maple of the V-100. The center instrument, V-42 Viola, shows a less
pronounced flame in the maple. Lastly, there is quite a beautiful curl in the V-25 maple rim. You can decide for yourself which is better.
From the examples that I have seen of low to high-end instruments, when it comes to Gibson violins, student model V-15 can sometimes exhibit quite exquisite characteristics in the flame. Thus,
back when there was an abundance of material, instrument makers would be known to manufacture beautiful low-end pieces using what is now considered high-end wood, unlike today.
There were several styles of Gibson Cases available. The following is a list, sans description:
C-15 Violin Case - $3.50
C-15 3/4 Violin Case - $3.50
C-64 Violin Case - $5.75
C-64 3/4 Violin Case - $5.75
C-25 Violin Case - $8.25
C-50 Violin Case - $12.50
C-250 Delux Violin Case - $47.50
C-300 Viola Case - $9.00
C-301 Cello Bag - $8.00
C-133 Bass Bag - $9.00
C-320 Delux Bass Bag - $15.00
Interestingly, there are no markings on these cases except for the manufacturer, Geib. The description in the Gibson Violin brochure must be matched with various
'landmarks' in order to verify a specific case. The case pictured on this site is determined to be a C-25 Violin Case.
The description follows:
"A rich-looking and sturdy case of Durabilt construction ; dark brown Alligator covering ; rust color rayon plush lining ; accessory pocket ; covered bow clasps ; new post
handle and bronze plated hardware."