What Is My Piano Worth? Valuation and Pricing Guide

You want to sell your piano or grand piano and wonder what it is worth? The value of a used instrument depends on several factors – brand, model, age, condition, and current market demand. This guide explains how to find a realistic price.

These Factors Determine Your Piano's Value

No two used pianos are alike. The most important value factors at a glance:

  • Brand and Model: Reputable brands like Yamaha, Kawai, Steinway, Bechstein or Bösendorfer hold their value significantly better than unknown manufacturers. A Yamaha U1 is in far greater demand on the used market than an unknown Chinese-brand piano.
  • Condition: Condition is the strongest influencing factor. A well-maintained mid-range instrument often fetches more than a neglected premium model. Criteria: action (keys, hammers, dampers), tuning stability, pinblock, soundboard, cabinet.
  • Age and Year of Manufacture: Age alone says little – quality of care counts more. A 40-year-old Yamaha U3 in very good condition can fetch €3,000. A 10-year-old no-name piano with neglect will barely reach €500.
  • Instrument Type: Grand pianos command higher prices relative to their size than upright pianos. Digital pianos lose value faster due to technological aging.
  • Current Market Demand: Seasonal fluctuations, regional demand and market supply influence the achievable price. Compare current listings on PianoHub for the most up-to-date assessment.

Price Overview: What Is My Piano Roughly Worth?

Reference values for used instruments in good condition (as of 2026):

  • Unknown brand / no-name: €100 – 500, often difficult to sell
  • Mid-range brands (Schimmel, August Förster, Petrof, Samick): €300 – 2,000 depending on model and condition
  • Yamaha U1 / U3 (Japan, 1960–2000): €1,500 – 5,000
  • Kawai K series (Japan): €1,000 – 4,500
  • C. Bechstein / Steinway (used): €8,000 – 60,000 depending on model and condition
  • Grand pianos (general): €2,500 – 80,000+, depending on brand and condition

How to Find the Right Selling Price

  • Step 1: Market Research: Look at current listings for similar instruments on PianoHub. Pay attention to brand, model, year and condition. This gives you the current market price – not the theoretical replacement value.
  • Step 2: Honestly Assess Condition: Tuning (when was it last tuned?), action (any stuck keys?), appearance (scratches, cabinet damage?), soundboard (cracks?). Be honest: defects lower the price but must be communicated transparently.
  • Step 3: Involve a Piano Technician: For instruments above €2,000, a professional assessment by a piano technician (approx. €80 – 150) is worthwhile. A written assessment builds trust with potential buyers and justifies a higher price.
  • Step 4: Set the Selling Price: Set the price approx. 5 – 10% above the minimum you want to achieve – to leave room for negotiation. Prices too high deter buyers; prices too low create mistrust.
  • Step 5: Create a Listing: Good photos (at least 5, various angles including keyboard and action), complete details on brand, model, year, condition and dimensions. Free and without registration on PianoHub.

Questions and Answers

What is my old piano still worth?

This depends heavily on brand, model and condition. An old piano of an unknown brand in poor condition often only fetches €100 – 300. A well-maintained Yamaha U1 from the 1970s, however, can be worth €2,000 – 3,500. Compare similar listings on PianoHub for a realistic assessment.

Is it worth investing in repairs before selling?

Smaller investments – tuning (€80 – 150), cleaning, fixing key faults – are almost always worthwhile. Larger renovations (hammers, action, soundboard) only pay off for high-quality instruments with corresponding market potential. Get advice from a piano technician.

Can I get my piano valued online?

There is no reliable automatic online valuation for pianos – too many factors are involved. Most reliable: study current comparable listings on platforms like PianoHub and, if needed, commission a piano technician.

A realistic price is the best start to a successful sale. Prices too high deter buyers; prices too low leave value on the table.

Create a free listing and present your piano to thousands of interested buyers immediately – no registration, no fees.