Trying to help my mother determine value of piano!

[faerieosity]

My mother was given a piano by my step-father, who has since died. She knows almost nothing about it and therefore cannot determine a value. She wishes to sell it. It is a Baldwin Hamilton Studio upright piano. It is in excellent condition, though it has been played little. The numbers on the back are: 243hpa GLO, and the color is oak.

If anyone can help determine the value, I would very much appreciate it.

Also, do you think the piano needs to be tuned. The last time she played was probably ten years ago.

Thanks to anyone who can help!

[ingunite]

According to The Piano Book by Larry Fine, 2003, Baldwin consoles and studios (including 45" studio vertical, the "Hamilton") were in $4,200-$6,800 range, and Baldwin uprights around $7,400-$9,600 respectively.

[quantum]

The best thing to do is hire a piano technician to give an evaluation and estimate of the piano.  There are many things beyond what a non-trained person can see or hear that contribute to the overall condition of the piano.  Keep in mind that potential buyers may also wish to hire their own technician to check out the piano - this is a standard practice. 

If the piano has not been tuned regularly (at least once a year), it probably needs a pitch raise.  This type of tuning takes more work and will probably cost more.  However, tuning issues are not the only factor in the health of a piano.  Thus my suggestion to hire a tech to give you a detailed evaluation of the instrument.