Broadwood Piano

[Clapton69]

Hi Guys

I have a John Broadwood Piano that I am trying to find out the age and a possible value. It has a serial number written in chalk on the inside in 2 locations. the number is 36196. It is 1555mm High and 1470mm long. It is a Mahogany colour. I have attached photos.

Thanks
Clay

[Bill Kibby]

Although it is quite possible that somebody might chalk the serial number somewhere, we can't assume that it is the serial number if it doesn't appear in an imprint, or painted form etc..

#36196 is not a modern enough number for it, and what I need most to help me assess its age is to see what the whole piano looks like on the outside, unobscured by dogs, stools, vases etc..

If you want to search for clues inside the piano, have a look at
http://www.pianohistory.info/datemarks.html

Nobody anywhere can guess the value or condition of a piano without inspecting it on the spot, and tuning it, so your local tuner is the best person to ask.

[Colin Nicholson]

Hi
Serial numbers are never chalked on pianos, always properly printed either as a decal/ punched into wood or ink stamped using about 2cm in height lettering - in black.
Have a look closely near the tuning pins, or behind the action at the top of the soundboard. The chalk numbers could be copied from a stock number.

We can't value pianos here (read white text in blue box above) .... you will need to either make an appointment with a piano technician who will need to partly tune it and assess its condition & value, or look at various auction websites for comparisons. I have seen a few sell for around £200, but that may not necessarily imply your piano is worth that...,depends on condition, and if it can be tuned successfully.

If no numbers, try removing a few left keys and look underneath keyboard/ side of note A1

[Clapton69]

Thanks guys I have just found the numbers 81401 stamped on the inside of the tuning pegs.

[Clapton69]

Also just found the numbers 253547 stamped on the back inside of the unit

[Bill Kibby]

The larger number suggests that it may be 1937, I could feel more secure about it if I could see what the WHOLE piano looks like on the outside.

[Colin Nicholson]

As there seems to be confliction between several sets of numbers and their suggested dates, it might be best to send clear images of the numbers - also recommended to sent a photo of the whole piano with ALL the panels attached, showing the front panel design/ no speakers/ no stool - just the whole piano. "Back inside of the unit" doesn't really make sense - you make it sound like a filing cabinet....

The numbers starting 81.... near the tuning pins seems the correct location, but the numbers suggest a very early age - mid to late 1800s, and the piano looks later.

The back numbers 'sound' better - mid 1930s (ah just seen Bill's post arrive!) ......

Serial numbers are quite unique, and just looking at type set here on the forum doesn't show number font style/ how it is stamped, or if authentic.