Good day to you. I own an upright grand, Bentley Chicago serial number 38489, circa 1900. The damper needs adjusting and the leather needs replaced on several keys. Before I sell it, I'd like to know approximate value.Thank you -Joy
Optional Information: Item's Current Condition: Needs to be tuned, and some internal adjustments to damper and whatnot. Still has nice tone, but several keys stick. Bentley Chicago serial number 38489, circa 1900.Type of Valuation: Retail
Hi! My name is XXXXX XXXXX X am pleased to assist you. Could you provide an image for review and note overall condition, paying special attention to ANY visible flaws?
The varnish looks aged, this piano has been well used and well loved since I got it in 3rd grade (we have only tuned it - never any cosmetic work). I am now almost 57... Attached are some photos - it is not in show condition by any means, but it isn't in shabby condition either. I have no idea if the keys are still ivory or not - they are all solid (ie no cut marks showing replacements). Please see photos for further review. I need to sell it and want to know what a fair and reasonable price would be.
Thank you very much for the very good images! That helps a lot. Your piano, made by H.D. Bentley of Chicago, is not to be confused with THE BENTLEY PIANO CO. LTD. of Woodchester, Stroud, Glos., England, which began production in 1906. It is a relatively small company, begun around 1895, which made average grade pieces.
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Based upon a review of information you provided and published completed sales data for similar items, the current fair market value is estimated to range from $500
to $800 based on overall condition and regional market demand. The private seller market for older pianos such as this is very, very weak at present, honestly. A key selling point will be your woodwork, which is a step above most examples on the market...I would suggest offering it at a bit higher price and leaving some room for negotiation.
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Potential sales venues you could consider include listings on eBay.com, etsy.com and Rubylane.com or even placing a free local ad on Craigslist.org, for example, under collectibles. Larger or more expensive items can generally be placed on consignment in many collector and antique shops and galleries as well as in multi-vendor shops. You can also consider placement in a regional auction house or addition to a local estate auction as add-ons, which most will generally accept. You should be aware that most retail dealers will only pay 35-45% of actual estimated value since the items have to have a strong margin for resale and profit, especially in a weak economy such as the world is now in.
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Experience: Active professional dealer since 1981