Antique Pianos – Three Popular Types of Vintage Pianos

As you research antique pianos you will find the most prevalent and most commonly produced acoustic pianos built in the United State were the square piano, upright (vertical) piano the baby grand piano types. The three types were massed produced by hundreds of small factories and workshops starting before the War Between the States and continuing in large numbers up till the Second World War. The square grand pianos models were discontinued in the late 1800’s in favor of the upright piano models which continued to be produced targeted primarily in the market for home users.

The square piano was most popular during the mid 19th century; the most prominent makers were Steinway, Chickering, Steiff and Knabe. Having a hand-carved Victorian embellished rosewood case and legs, they are a prime example of the artisan craftsmen’s work from this era. They have a direct blow action and lack the repetition lever system that was later developed for the grand piano. While they have less potential for outstanding sound quality they are still routinely rebuilt and are worthy of fine piano restoration work.

Upright antique pianos were built in a variety of styles; most of the early examples have a height from 44’’ to 52’’ inches and have a lightly ornamented case, usually made from walnut or mahogany veneers. Most have a superior potential for good tone and sound because of the rigidly built iron frame and long string length. While having these qualities, the smaller upright and spinet versions became favored in the mid 20th century because of their lesser height and contemporary style cases.

The most common vintage baby grand piano models were in the size range from 5’ to 6’ with a case made from oak, walnut or mahogany veneer. In the 1920’s a popular model was the pneumatic player grand piano powered by an electric motor attached to the bellow pump. Mass production lasted till such innovations as the transistor radio and other home entertainment led to their manufacturing demise.


Antique pianos represent an integral part of American history and the lifestyle and traditions of a bygone era. The popular types of vintage pianos described in this article all represent a worthy investment, an asset that will be realized even more in future years. Buying and restoring these pianos is a rewarding process that can be educational and enjoyable, several world class piano restoration firms that specialize in antique piano restoration offer services nationwide for interested parties.