Hi, I am considering trading my 1967 Mason & Hamlin console ...

Hi,
I am considering trading my 1967 Mason & Hamlin console piano - it's just not my style (Queen Anne). Was purchased new by my Mom. I have my eye on an M. Schulz upright (serial# 38938) that is quite distinctive in style...burled walnut with vine-like appliques (in wood) and some nice columns above the front wheels. Probably was made around 1908 or 1909. Can anyone give me a clue as to the worth of the piano I have & the one I want? I have pictures of both.
Thanks,
Jane

Consult The Piano Book by Larry Fine. He now has a free online version also. Lots of info on buying used and new pianos, and their prices.

You're sure to get a better tone out of the larger Schulz. Has it been well maintained? What kind of condition is it in?

Thanks for answering...I'll be looking in the online version of the book by Fine right away. The Shulz is in pretty good shape as far as the look of the wood - just a few dings. But it does need strings, pins & dampers. It has more of a tinny sound than I would want. Thanks again for the help!

If it needs strings, pins and dampers, it probably needs hammers too. In other words, almost a whole new piano.

And there's the sound board to consider too.

For that amount of money it might be better to look for another piano.

I've just fallen in love with the look of the piano and the fact that it's so old. It really is unique. But of course I don't want to make a bad trade either. He is offering to swap it for my Mason & Hamlin even, and if I want the strings, pins & dampers that will be $1200 t0 $1500. Does that sound out of line?
I appreciate your responses thus far, and look forward to hearing from you once again.

"It has more of a tinny sound than I would want."

The tinny sound is a result of old (over 100 years!) hammers. The felt has been worn away, and hardened with time. New strings, pins etc, will not change that tinny sound.

New hammers will be needed.

Sound boards dry out and crack over time.

Have an independent piano technician (not one associated with the seller of this Schulz piano) do a thorough check of the piano, and ask him what it will cost to do the work you want and he recommends.

Basically, it sounds to me like you want this piano because of its wood cabinet.
Personally, the sound of an instrument is more important to me than its looks.

Thank you for your advice & opinions...I will follow them & we'll see what happens. Peace & joy to you and yours