Answer:
One could safely assume he had several. Since this instrument was his "bread and butter", if the instrument was unplayable, he would not be able to work - hence having several as backups, or for different playing conditions (indoors, outdoors, inclement weather, etc.).
First answer by Bozidar. Last edit by Bozidar. Contributor trust: 1656 [recommend contributor recommended]. Question popularity: 3 [recommend question].