No concert violinist here, just an old journeyman orchestra player who spent a young career playing in the symphony and studio orchestras in S. California. Now a semi-retired partner in a CPA firm.
I lurk on this site almost every day and read with great interest the comments made by the expert makers and restorers who post here. ---and yes, once in awhile I open my big mouth to join in . It always seems that it ends up in a competition as to who can find the most fault with whatever instrument is in question. It also seems like it's a badge of honor to have a barn/garage/closet/bin full of these "VSOs" that you are much too good or too busy to waste your time restoring.
12 years ago, I helped found a non-profit corporation (501)(c3) to provide on loan, instruments for students who otherwise could not afford one. Rules were simple; -student must be taking private lessons and play in 2 recitals ( put on by the organization) each year. To make a long story short, it was very successful. We started with 14 violins that I donated and an additional 3 from our 6 board of directors. All went very well, and we received donations from local business and individuals to buy more instruments and to maintain those that were loaned out.
I am a player, not a maker or restorer, but after working with students (I'm not a teacher either, just a sponsor) for 50 years, I can pretty much put a violin back in playable condition, unless it is beyond help. Yes, the cracks might not be closed to Jeffery's specifications, but you have to realize these instruments are mostly what you would call Ebay rubbish. Of the 58 instruments we have with students, only 4 would possibly pass your judgment as being suitable for playing, but all 58 are the pride and joy of their owners, and sound great at the recitals. Unfortunately, because of the current economy, many of our contributions have evaporated, so we have gifted all 58 instruments to the students. I have taken on the responsibility to attempt to maintain these instruments as best I can. We still have a waiting list for more instruments, so if any of you wish to reduce your barn/garage/closet/bin full of rubbish, I will pay the shipping to Arizona, and attempt restoration.