Joseph H Riley

[OCALLA]

Hi , my mother has just died leaving a transposing upright piano of Mr. Riley , patent no. 1434. How rare is it ?

[Bill Kibby]

Joseph Riley was a musical instrument dealer in Birmingham, there is no evidence that he actually made pianos at all, but many retailers put their own name onto pianos bought in from wholesalers. He was established in 1851. By 1894, The firm is listed in Kelly's Directory as J. Riley & Sons. I would guess your piano was made between these dates, but have a look at
http://pianogen.org/datemarks.html

As for transposing pianos, there are a few about, the most common being those made by George Russell. Whether rarity has any cash value is another matter.

Can you post some photos of the whole piano here, or email them to me to post?

[OCALLA]

Thanks for the reply, I will take some photos soon. Sean.