Kimball Console Piano Value Guide

The Kimball Console Piano from the 1960-1975 era is a quintessential piece of mid-century Americana, representing the peak production years of the world's once-largest piano manufacturer. These instruments are highly collectible for their compact suburban design, specifically featuring the iconic decorative lattice fretwork on the music desk and matching walnut benches.

What affects the value of Kimball Console Piano?

• Condition of the internal action, including the integrity of the wool felt hammers and steel strings.
• Structural stability of the spruce soundboard, specifically checking for cracks that affect resonance.
• The cosmetic state of the walnut finish and the presence of the original matching lattice-style bench.
• Tuning stability and whether the piano has been regularly maintained in a climate-controlled environment.

How to Identify Kimball Console Piano?

• Look for the distinct decorative lattice or fretwork pattern on the music rest, a signature of Kimball's mid-century console styling.
• Verify the 'Kimball' brand name cast into the iron plate or printed on the fallboard above the keys.
• Confirm the construction materials include a walnut wood exterior with a spruce soundboard and a cast iron internal frame.
• Check for the original matching bench which mirrors the tapered leg style of the 1960s-70s console cabinet.

History of Kimball Console Piano

Kimball was once the world's largest piano manufacturer, founded in Chicago in 1857. During the mid-20th century, their console models became a staple of the American home due to their reliable action and compact size. This specific design with the fretwork music desk was highly popular in suburban homes during the post-war era.