A taxi driver has been rewarded for his honesty after he returned a $4 million violin.

The 1723 Antonio Stradivari "Ex-Keisewetter" was left in a cab by Grammy-nominated violinist Philippe Quint.

The musician ended his journey at New York City's Battery Park, leaving his instrument behind.

It spent the night on the seat of the cab, which was parked on the street, and wasn't discovered by taxi driver Mohamed Khalil until the following afternoon.

A grateful Mr Quint gave Mr Khalil $100 for returning the violin, and he was also awarded a special city medallion by the Newark Mayor.

Recounting the moment when Mr Quint was reunited with his extremely valuable violin, Mr Khalil said: "He told me that this thing is not belonging to him, it's just he plays on it."

"And if he can't find it, then this is the end of his career, and he might commit suicide," he added with a smile.

Newark Mayor Cory Booker said Mr Khalil had shown "a sense of love for his fellow man".

"This is a moment where a cab driver in our city saw something awry and did not take personal advantage, but did the right thing," Mr Booker said.

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