Piano Information Blog

We are often asked to give a particular pianos age and most of the time it is based on finding a serial number so that we can cross reference with the date of manufacture.  Many piano manufacturers placed serial numbers in a variety of places.  Pianos also have other numbers printed on them such as part numbers and many other pianos do not have a serial number at all. Many pianos will have a 4, 5 or 6 digit serial number to identify the age of the piano.  Using this number, along with the manufacturer, we can then determine the age of the piano. The areas to look for these numbers vary from each company but here are some common places to look along with some photos.

1. Piano serial number of uprights are many times located on the inside of the piano stamped onto the plate between the bass string section and the treble string section.

2. Other upright serial numbers are located on the cast iron plate but placed above the treble string section.

3. Grand piano serial numbers are placed in many areas as the photos show. There are seven examples but your serial number placement could be in yet a different location and may require some searching.

Be sure to find the manufacturer’s name stamped on the cast iron plate or in the wood. Do not rely on the name that is printed on the fall board as this does not guarantee the name of the manufacturer. Some serial numbers are printed on the back board of vertical pianos and require you to move the piano out from the wall. We have also seen serial numbers of grand pianos stamped into the lyre assembly and nowhere else. A thorough examination is required to locate each pianos individual serial number.