Krell Upright Piano Value Guide

The Krell Upright Piano is a hallmark of the American Golden Age of piano building, manufactured by Albert Krell's Cincinnati-based firm established in 1889. These instruments are highly collectible for their 'Cabinet Grand' internal scale designs and the elaborate Victorian foliate carvings that define their aesthetic.

What affects the value of Krell Upright Piano?

• The condition of the internal iron plate and spruce soundboard, as cracks significantly diminish the $850-$935 value range.
• The preservation of original materials, particularly the ivory and ebony keys versus modern plastic replacements.
• The intricacy and state of the dark wood carvings, as well as the overall integrity of the walnut or mahogany veneer.
• Mechanical playability and the resonance of the tone, which Krell instruments were historically noted for.

How to Identify Krell Upright Piano?

• Look for the 'Krell Piano Company' nameplate located on the fallboard or cast into the internal iron plate.
• Identify the 'Cabinet Grand' designation, which was a signature marketing and design feature of Krell's larger upright models.
• Examine the exterior for late 19th-century Victorian details, specifically carved foliate accents in dark walnut or mahogany finishes.
• Verify the serial number inside the cabinet to confirm the production date between the 1895-1910 era.

History of Krell Upright Piano

The Krell Piano Company was established in Cincinnati, Ohio, in 1889 by Albert Krell. Known for producing high-quality instruments with a rich, resonant tone, Krell was a prominent American manufacturer during the Golden Age of piano building. Their instruments often featured the elaborate woodworking and 'Cabinet Grand' internal scale designs popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.