What Is It Truly Worth? Chickering Square Grand Piano Appraised at $14,000
At DJR Authentication, we recently appraised an elegant Chickering & Sons square grand piano—a rare and partially restored antique crafted in Boston between 1865 and 1880.
This piece features a rosewood veneer cabinet, 85 keys, ornate Victorian detailing, and a cast iron plate marked “CHICKERING & SONS – TREMON[T] ST. BOSTON.” In 2004, the piano received a partial professional restorationwith $4,000 in documented work from Boggs Piano Service. That included cabinet and soundboard refinishing, new strings and felts, minor ivory restoration, and mechanical updates—preserving its vintage charm while enhancing display and basic functionality.
Appraisal Highlights:
Maker: Chickering & Sons, Boston, MA
Type: Square Grand Piano (circa 1865–1880)
Restoration: Partial (cosmetic and light mechanical, not concert-ready)
Estimated Insurance Replacement Value: $14,000
Condition: Excellent for age—rich finish, structurally sound, no major damage
Why Appraisal & Authentication Matter:
Unlike modern uprights or baby grands, antique pianos are valued for more than sound. Craftsmanship, builder reputation, condition, and restoration history all factor into value. Without appraisal, many owners may overlook how collectibility and presentation impact insurability and resale potential.
Ideal Items to Appraise:
Vintage or antique instruments
Restored or partially restored heritage pieces
Items passed down through family with no valuation history
Items used for estate, insurance, or resale documentation
Before You Act
Antique instruments are frequently misvalued because restoration costs, visual appeal, or brand recognition are assumed to translate directly into market or insurance value. Partial restorations, structural limitations, transportation constraints, and limited buyer pools can materially affect both insurability and resale outcomes. Age and craftsmanship alone do not establish replacement cost or market position.
If uncertainty remains, a Fast Opinion provides a disciplined first-stage review based on submitted images and documentation—helping clarify value drivers, restoration impact, and whether further evaluation is warranted before insuring, selling, or transferring ownership.
