Conover Upright Piano Value Guide

The Conover Upright Piano, manufactured between 1910 and 1925, represents the pinnacle of Chicago's piano-making excellence under the Cable Company's premier professional line. These instruments are highly collectible due to the innovative 'Conover Scale' engineering which allowed them to rival the tonal quality of Steinway and Mason & Hamlin.

What affects the value of Conover Upright Piano?

• The structural integrity of the spruce soundboard and the cast iron plate significantly impacts the $1,800-$1,950 valuation.
• The condition of the mahogany cabinet's finish and the presence of original ivory key tops.
• The mechanical state of the internal action and whether the piano retains its signature professional tonal quality.
• Historical provenance and documentation linking the piece to its original United States production period.

How to Identify Conover Upright Piano?

• Look for the 'Conover' brand name cast into the iron plate or printed on the fallboard above the keys.
• Verify the use of genuine mahogany wood for the cabinet and authentic ivory and ebony for the key surfaces.
• Check for the specific 'Conover Scale' design markings which indicate the brand's proprietary engineering standards.
• Confirm the manufacturing era by cross-referencing the serial number with the Cable Company production records from 1910-1925.

History of Conover Upright Piano

The Conover Piano Company was established in Chicago in 1883 by J. Frank Conover. Renowned for their exceptional engineering and tonal quality, Conover pianos were often compared to Steinway and Mason & Hamlin in their prime. The brand was later acquired by the Cable Company in 1892, where it served as their premier professional line, known for innovative features like the 'Conover Scale.'