This 1897 Steinway & Sons Model K represents the absolute pinnacle of Victorian-era piano manufacturing. Standing at a commanding 54 inches—the largest upright Steinway ever produced—the Model K was engineered to be a “Vertical Grand,” designed for those who demanded the power and prestige of a Steinway grand but preferred the space-saving format of a vertical piano.

Exotic Satin Rosewood Cabinetry: The visual centerpiece of this instrument is its stunning Satin Rosewood finish. In the late 19th century, Steinway utilized the finest exotic veneers available; this Rosewood showcases a complex, fiery grain and deep, variegated colors that are simply impossible to source for modern production. The cabinet has been expertly refinished to a soft satin sheen, highlighting the wood’s natural beauty while preserving its historic character.

Comprehensive Professional Restoration: To ensure this 127-year-old treasure performs at a world-class level, it has undergone a meticulous restoration:

• Acoustic Excellence: The massive soundboard and bridges have been restored to project the legendary “Steinway Sound”—a deep, thunderous bass and a warm, singing treble that only a 54-inch scale design can produce.
• Mechanical Precision: The action has been fully rebuilt and regulated, providing a sensitive, responsive touch that allows for immense expressive control.
• Structural Integrity: Re-strung with premium materials and fitted with new tuning pins to ensure exceptional tuning stability for decades to come.

The “Vertical Grand” Experience: The Model K features a specialized scale design with longer bass strings than a 5’7″ Steinway Model M grand. This results in an orchestral resonance and a harmonic richness that fills a room with ease. Crafted during Steinway’s most artistic era, it features old-growth Adirondack spruce and handcrafted details that modern factory-built pianos cannot replicate.

Ideal For:

• Serious Pianists: Seeking the power and touch of a Steinway grand in an upright format.
• Collectors of Fine Antiques: Who want a functional piece of American history in a rare exotic wood.
• Historic Homeowners: Looking for a period-accurate, world-class instrument for a Victorian or Edwardian parlor.

Comparison to New

New Steinway & Sons Model K-52 (52″ Upright):

• MSRP (Polished Ebony): Approximately $45,000 – $55,000.
• Exotic Wood Finishes: To order a new Steinway in a rare wood like Rosewood (if available) would push the price toward $70,000+.
• Value Analysis: At the reduced price of $11,999, you are paying roughly 15-20% of the cost of a new equivalent, while gaining two extra inches of height and a rare, antique Rosewood cabinet.

Why Choose the 1897 Restored Model? Beyond the $40,000+ in savings, this 1897 Model K is a one-of-a-kind heirloom. Modern pianos are almost exclusively black; this instrument is a work of decorative art. You are acquiring the legendary Steinway performance and the soul of an antique masterpiece for the price of a mid-range, mass-produced upright.