This 1953 Yamaha Model No. 20 is not merely a piano; it is a significant piece of musical history and a work of high-concept Art Deco design. Manufactured during Yamaha’s early post-war era, the Model No. 20 is a predecessor to the world-famous G and C series grands. Finding a Yamaha from this vintage in North America is exceptionally rare, but finding one in a bespoke Art Deco cabinet that has been fully restored and refinished is a singular opportunity for the most discerning collector.

Art Deco Masterpiece: The highlight of this instrument is its stunning Art Deco Style Case. Characterized by sleek, geometric lines and a streamlined aesthetic, this design reflects the luxury and modernity of the mid-20th century. The cabinet is finished in an Exotic Satin Mahogany, showcasing a deep, complex wood grain that provides a warm, organic glow. Every curve and angle of this case has been meticulously refinished to a museum-quality standard, making it a functional sculpture and the ultimate centerpiece for a sophisticated home.

Full Professional Restoration: This piano has undergone a comprehensive, top-to-bottom restoration to ensure it performs as brilliantly as it looks. The restoration includes:

• Acoustic Renewal: A meticulously restored soundboard and a complete re-stringing with premium materials, ensuring the “Golden Age” Yamaha tone is preserved.
• Mechanical Precision: A fully rebuilt and regulated action, providing the responsive, precise touch that Yamaha is legendary for.
• Bespoke Refinishing: The exotic mahogany cabinet has been hand-rubbed to a perfect satin sheen, highlighting the rare wood grain while protecting the instrument for decades to come.

Performance and Tonal Character: At 5’5″, the Model No. 20 is a generous baby grand size, offering a significantly richer bass and a fuller tonal palette than the common 5’0″ grand. The tone is sweet, lyrical, and clear—a characteristic of these early handcrafted Yamahas. It provides a level of musical intimacy and expressive range that is ideal for both classical performance and contemporary songwriting.

Ideal For:

• Collectors & Connoisseurs: Who seek a rare, historically significant Yamaha that is virtually impossible to find elsewhere.
• Designers & Homeowners: Looking for a unique Art Deco statement piece that doubles as a world-class musical instrument.
• Serious Pianists: Who appreciate the character and craftsmanship of a handcrafted, fully restored vintage grand.

Comparison to New

New Equivalent (e.g., Yamaha C1X or C2X):

• MSRP: A new 5’3″ to 5’8″ Yamaha CX-series grand typically retails between $42,000 and $55,000.
• The Rarity Factor: Yamaha does not produce Art Deco style cases or utilize exotic Mahogany of this grade in their standard modern production. To commission a custom Art Deco case on a new grand would easily push the price toward $75,000+.
• Value Analysis: At the clearance price of $26,999, you are acquiring a fully restored, museum-grade collectible for roughly half the price of a standard new modern grand.

Why Choose the 1953 Model? Beyond the $8,000 clearance savings, this piano offers “soul” and historical pedigree that a brand-new factory instrument cannot replicate. You are investing in a piece of Yamaha’s heritage, finished in a rare style that represents a high-water mark for mid-century design. As an “Extremely Rare” item, it holds a high potential for appreciation in value that mass-produced new pianos do not share.