Upright Piano Value & Price Guide

Upright pianos are cherished collectibles that blend musical utility with exquisite furniture design. These vertical instruments, ranging from ornate Victorian models to sleek mid-century consoles, offer a space-saving alternative to grand pianos without sacrificing historical charm.

History of Upright Piano

The upright piano gained immense popularity in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as the centerpiece of the middle-class parlor. During this 'Golden Age' of piano manufacturing, companies like Chickering and Emerson produced thousands of instruments featuring elaborate wood carvings and robust internal cast-iron plates. As living spaces evolved in the post-war era, the design shifted toward smaller console and spinet models, reflecting the mid-century modern aesthetic while maintaining the instrument's role as a domestic cultural staple.

Value Factors for Upright Piano

• Manufacturer reputation and brand prestige.
• Cabinet condition and the quality of wood veneers or decorative carvings.
• Mechanical playability and the integrity of the internal action components.
• Age and historical period, with Victorian and early 20th-century models often being more desirable.

Tips for Buying Upright Piano

• Inspect the soundboard for cracks and the pinblock for tightness to ensure the instrument can hold a tune.
• Verify the brand heritage, as prestigious makers like Steinway & Sons or Ivers & Pond command significantly higher resale values.
• Check the condition of the ivory or celluloid key tops and the internal hammer felts for signs of excessive wear or pest damage.

Items in This Collection

• Steinway & Sons Upright Piano
• Yamaha U1 Upright Piano
• Vintage Upright Piano
• Kimball Upright Piano
• Antique Upright Piano
• Kohler & Campbell Upright Piano
• Chickering Upright Piano
• Upright Console Piano
• Hobart M. Cable Upright Piano
• Chickering and Sons Upright Piano
• Whitney Upright Piano
• Ivers & Pond Upright Piano
• Wm. Knabe & Co. Upright Piano
• Antique Upright Player Piano
• Emerson Upright Piano
• Fischer Upright Piano
• Victorian Upright Piano
• Packard Upright Piano
• Ellington Upright Piano
• Mid-Century Upright Piano