An almost flawless example of a 1941 Gibson V-100 Violin and C-25 Case.
This page is dedicated to the pinnacle of Gibson Violins. The V-100 was top-of-the-line according to Gibson. This piece is almost unflawed and comes with a NOS case from 1941.
Inner label dates this violin to 1941.
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."
Gibson flyer for a V-50 Violin.
Besides the difference in finish, what sets this violin apart from the others in Gibson's line was attention to detail (just like the L-5 and Super 400). The V-100's compliment accessories are ebony with mother of pearl inlay.
Beautiful spruce tops. V-100 left, VA-42 middle and V-25 right.
V-100 left, V-42 middle and V-25 right.
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.
V-100 left, V-42 middle and V-25 right.
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."
The Geib Case pictured below is almost flawless. The paint on the hinges is close to perfect, the alligator covering has no wear and the lining retains its manufactured rayon rust color.
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