Obv: A crown, the date 1795, encircled within the musical notes to ‘GOD SAVE-THE KING.’ Rev: The Prince of Wales’ crest within double circle, WM. FORSTER . VIOLIN . TENOR . & VIOLONCELLO MAKER . NO. 348 STRAND LONDON around. Edge: Plain rounded.
Extremely Fine with some red remaining. Tiny spot above crown. Some lustre remains.
Known as the "Old Forster", William Forster was a highly skilled violin tenor and violoncello maker. He came to London in 1759 working as a cattle-drover to pursue making violins. He also began a music selling and publishing business and published works of J.C. Bach and had an agreement with Haydn to publish his works in England. His instruments are highly valued today. A cello of his making sold in 2011 for nearly $134,000.