How do I find out when my piano was made?

Many pianos will have a 4, 5 or 6 digit serial number to identify the age of the piano. Using this number, along with the manufacturer, the age of the piano can sometimes be determined. The areas to look for these numbers vary from each company but here are some common places to look along with some photos.

How do I know what model my piano is?

Open the lid and look above the keyboard area. Look in front of the soundboard in either corner. Look along the inside plate holes or it may be in one of the circles stamped into the soundboard. The number may be stamped under the piano.

How do I find out how much a piano is worth?

Appraisers of used pianos and other consumer goods typically use three different methods to determine fair market value: comparable sales, depreciation, and idealized value minus the cost of restoration.

Is there a blue book for pianos?

The Bluebook of Pianos is an invaluable handbook for anyone who owns or plans to buy a piano. After an illustrated discussion of piano structure that explains the workings of both grand and upright pianos, the book gives careful advice for purchasing a new or used piano.

How do you date an old piano?

You will need 2 things to determine the age of your piano:

1. The brand name of the piano. Note: Some pianos will have more than one name for the manufacturer.
2. The serial number (NOT the model number) of the piano. To locate the serial number on a vertical piano, open the top and look inside.

How do you date a Chickering piano?

As with any other piano, the best and most precise way of dating your Chickering is by its serial number. But this method is not without difficulty and hazard. The most common difficulty encountered is locating the actual serial number.

Are old upright pianos worth anything?

What Determines Antique Piano Values? Antique pianos are pianos that’re at least a hundred years old, and, like antique books, they’re not worth a lot of money just because of their age. In actuality, these old instruments may be worth very little at all, depending on their brand and condition.

How do I identify an upright piano?

In most pianos, the brand name and serial number can be found inside the instrument near the soundboard or strings. Upright pianos usually have the brand name and serial number located inside the piano, on the back near the top of the strings.

Where is a piano serial number?

Usually four to eight digits, the serial number is most often located near the tuning pins, either printed directly on the plate or engraved in the wooden pinblock and showing through a cut-away portion of the plate.