List, I received this e-mail today and since I do no work on "antique" pianos such as this, I was wondering if anyone could send some answers to her questions. The one thing that bothers me is the "restrung for the American market" line in her post. Thanks. Avery Dear Mr. Todd, I ran across your name while surfing the net for information on antique pianos. I am inquiring on behalf of my parents, who own a circa 1840-1865 John Broadwood & Sons artcase Cottage Grand piano. It still bears an original certificate under the piano wires saying "Cottage Grand #455," is also stamped or carved underneath the body on various components with the number 1593, is carved in very tiny letters undernearth with the name "J. Hill," has 50 ebony & ivory keys, 2 pedals, a wooden frame for the wires, has the word Patent inscribed underneath the music stand, a split fallboard with John Broadway & Sons on it in goldleaf. They were told by a tuner who refused to work on it that it was possibly a museum quality piece. It has been restrung for the American market by someone in Houston (I don't know who). Their desire is to make sure it is accurately appraised and insured, or possibly sell it if it is indeed a piece which belongs in a museum (they don't want that kind of responsibility at this point in their lives). Any information which you could give me as to its value or the name of someone to whom we can turn, would be greatly appreciated. You may e-mail me back (Cindi Schmerber schmerbers@computron.net) or contact my parents directly (Bob & Ruby Allen, ballensr@ih2000.net). Thank you, Cindi Schmerber
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