How to Determine the Age of a Wurlitzer Piano: A Comprehensive Guide

When it comes to musical instruments, especially classic pianos like the Wurlitzer, knowing the age can be incredibly valuable. Whether you're a musician, collector, or simply interested in the history of your piano, understanding how to determine its age is crucial. In this guide, we will walk you through the process of identifying the age of your Wurlitzer piano using the serial number.

Understanding the Importance of Wurlitzer Piano Age

Wurlitzer pianos, renowned for their high-quality craftsmanship and rich tonal qualities, have been celebrated by musicians and enthusiasts for decades. Knowing the age of your Wurlitzer piano not only adds to its historical significance but also helps in making informed decisions about its maintenance, restoration, and even its value in the market.

Where to Find the Serial Number

To determine the age of your Wurlitzer piano, the first step is to locate the serial number. This can sometimes be a challenge, but there are a few common places where it can be found:

Underneath the Piano: Open the top of the piano and look inside near the top. Typically, the serial number is engraved inside the case near this area. A flashlight may be necessary to see it clearly. Back of the Piano: If you cannot find the serial number inside, try pulling the piano out a few inches from the wall and look for it on the back of the instrument.

Serial Number Lookup Guide

Once you have located the serial number, you can use the following information to determine the age of your Wurlitzer piano. The first number indicates the year of manufacture, while the second number represents the starting serial number for that year:

Year Starting Serial Number 1903 - 1910 n1905 - 4500 1910 - 1915 1905 - 4500 1915 - 1920 1910 - 11600 1920 - 1925 1915 - 22000 1925 - 1930 1920 - 40000 1930 - 1935 1925 - 63000 1935 - 1940 1930 - 112000 1940 - 1946 1935 - 136000 1946 - 1950 1940 - 195000 1950 - 1955 1946 - 330000 1955 - 1960 1950 - 400000 1960 - 1965 1955 - 537000 1965 - 1970 1960 - 657000 1970 - 1976 1965 - 905000 1976 - 1980 1970 - 1105000 1980 - 1985 1976 - 1385000 1985 - 1990 1980 - 1595000 1990 - 1995 1985 - 1825000 1995 - 2000 1990 - 2080001 2000 - 2001 1995 - 2825969 2001 - 2002 2000 - 2840520 2002 - 2003 2001 - 2842220

If your piano is an upright type, the serial number will typically be located at the top of the main case, just inside the key cover. For other types of pianos like grand pianos, you might need to check the underside of the soundboard or the inside of the cabinet.

Seeking Expert Help

While the above guide provides a straightforward method to determine the age of your Wurlitzer piano, it’s important to note that accuracy is key. If you are unsure about the serial number or require additional assistance, consulting a professional piano tuner or restorer is highly recommended. They often have access to comprehensive indexes of Wurlitzer serial numbers and can provide expert advice on your specific model and age.

Conclusion

Knowing the age of your Wurlitzer piano is essential for its maintenance, restoration, and even its resale value. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can confidently determine the age of your piano using its serial number. If you encounter any difficulties, don't hesitate to seek professional help. Enjoy the rich history and legacy of your cherished Wurlitzer piano!