I concur that it's difficult right now to establish values because the economy is skewing things to the low side. Regional differences are also at play though in your area it's probably similar to San Francisco. My recent experience suggests that an M of that vintage in primo condition would do well to sell for $25,000 - $28,000 right now. This one falls far short of that though you haven't really said what it sounds like and whether the belly work is serviceable. When you factor in changing the action, restringing (even if you keep the original board which is questionable), damper upgrade, C+ case, I'd put the value certainly under $10,000. My approach is always to assume you are advising the buyer, not the seller. David Love www.davidlovepianos.com -----Original Message----- From: pianotech-bounces at ptg.org [mailto:pianotech-bounces at ptg.org] On Behalf Of Denise Rachel Sent: Saturday, February 20, 2010 7:10 AM To: Tech List Subject: [pianotech] Monetary evaluation Hello List, I am having trouble estimating the monetary value of pianos lately. For many years I had logical formulas for arriving at a reasonable figure, but those methods no longer serve. The influx of PSO and our regrettable economic situation have skewed the field. I know of far more pianos for sale than people looking for them right now, too. The piano in question is 1929 S&S model M. Board and bridges adequate. Restrung in 70's with poor wire. Original block with size 3 pins. Original action -- sluggish to the point of being unplayable. Case refinished in ebony, but done carelessly. I'd welcome your opinions of this instrument, but even more valuable would be to know your thought process. Also, I'd like to know exactly what years they impregnated the center pin bushings. Just curious, they're easy enough to spot. Thanks . . . Denise
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