Expert: Todd Lindeblad - 5/2/2010

Question
Todd:

My mother-in-law recently passed away and I wanted to know if the piano that was in the house when she bought it from the original owners holds any value.

Here's what I have from it:  The front has a part in the center that opens up where you see 3 circles - each circle has a different thing in it.  The one on the left has "Esposizione Internazionale of Musica Bologna Italia 1888" around the outside and on the inside it appears to have the following words; Confertita Sig 2 W H Kimbatble Chicago USA.  The second circle has the bust of a lady facing right and the third has the bust of (don't know if its a man or woman) facing left with the inscription around the circle reading "*Esposizione in Bologna 1888*S.A.R. IL Prnicipe Di Napoli Pres. Onor".  There is also the words W W Kimball Co. stamped on the inside of the piano.  When you lift the lid on top of the piano, there is a number stamped into the steel (or lead - don't know which) back.  The number is No.(there is a line under the lower case o)61797.

There are some things that would require restoration, but it plays (needs tuning) - there are some beautiful wood relief carvings attached across the front panels.  The one in the center has two very small pieces missing.  On the inside, the only damage I see is a hammer has been broken off - but it's still with the piano.

Anything you can tell me about this piano will help - we don't know whether to try to sell it or refurbish it or just take it to the dump.

Thanks so much.

Cyndi Ammons

Answer
Hi,
   Thank you for using allexperts.  Would you be able to email me photos of your piano? That will help me to assess it.  My email is contact@lindebladpiano.com
    It was built in 1898 according to the serial number. I look forward to hearing back from you.

Sincerely,
Todd Lindeblad
www.lindebladpiano.com
"Specializing in the sale & restoration of vintage pianos"