Usado, Steinway & Sons, D-274

One particularly notable attribute of this Steinway Model D, as with many high-end grand pianos manufactured prior to 1930, is its desirable status as a “Golden Age” instrument, a classification often used by technicians, historians and aficionados to describe the fortuitous confluence of old-world construction methods, expert craftsmanship, and finest quality materials that emerged as a unique phenomenon in the early 20th century piano industry.

Condition: The overall condition of this piano at the time of the appraisal was rated: Excellent

Specifications:

Model/Style: Model D Concert Grand / Spade Leg

Finish: Satin Ebony Hand-Rubbed Lacquer

Length: 9’ functional (8’11¾” actual)

Accessories: Matching Adjustable Artist Bench

Serial Number: 248954

Manufacture Date: 1926

Factory of Origin: Astoria / Long Island City, New York

Background:

Since the 1920’s the Steinway Model D has been the standard by which all other concert grands are measured. Many of the world’s greatest pianists and composers (Franz Liszt, Vladimir Horowitz, Arthur Rubinstein, Sergei Rachmaninoff, Leonard Bernstein, George Gershwin, et al), along with the musical directors of numerous concert halls and prestigious conservatories around the world, have made the Model D their instrument of choice, being drawn to its mellifluous scale design, impressive dynamic range, broad tonal spectrum, extraordinary responsiveness, and the inimitable mystique that places every piano bearing the Steinway name in a class by itself. Handcrafted over the course of2 of 2 nearly a year in Steinway’s New York workshop, using proprietary techniques and the finest materials available, this Steinway Model D embodies the height of musical artistry and engineering excellence.

Assessment:

Professional restoration of this piano’s entire case was completed on December 11th 2025 by former Steinway technician Ruben Gonzales Rivero, using best-in-class materials and processes consistent with Steinway standards. The bench was also restored and re-upholstered. All brass fittings were polished and sealed, and the steel strings were polished and treated for rust prevention. Mr. Rivero also installed a new set of genuine Steinway hammers (latest-generation), replaced all key bushings, regulated the action to factory specifications, and tuned the piano to a stable A-440 (concert pitch). A Certificate of Restoration will be made available to prospective buyers. Prior restoration work on this Model D was likely performed circa 1990. Operations include re-gilding the plate, re-pinning the pin block, re-stringing the harp, and upgrading the action using genuine Steinway damper felt, wippens, and backchecks. The piano’s soundboard, ribs, bridges and plate show no cracks, open seams or pressure ridges. The bridges maintain factory bearing. Sustain is excellent. The soundboard sings. The action operates with ease