Steinway Model V c.1935

The Steinway Model V is a rare and historically significant upright piano, one of only a small number of upright models ever produced by Steinway and Sons, and highly sought after by collectors and serious pianists alike. This c.1935 example, finished in striking fiddleback mahogany, represents an extraordinary opportunity to own one of the finest upright pianos ever built, priced at £8,995.

Steinway upright pianos were made to the same exacting standards as their grand pianos, with hand-selected materials, meticulous voicing, and the signature Steinway action that distinguishes the brand. This instrument has been assessed and prepared by our team at The Piano Gallery.

Available to purchase online or to try in person at our Oxfordshire showroom. Contact us to arrange a private viewing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Did Steinway really make upright pianos?

Yes, though they are extremely rare. Steinway produced upright pianos for a period during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, built to the same standards of craftsmanship as their famous grands. The Model V is one of the most sought-after of these uprights among collectors and serious pianists, and finding a well-preserved example in a striking finish like fiddleback mahogany is genuinely unusual. Most pianists will never have the opportunity to play one.

How does a Steinway upright compare to a Steinway grand?

A Steinway grand will offer more power, dynamic range, and the full expressive capability of the grand piano format. The Steinway Model V upright is, however, a fundamentally different proposition to any other upright piano: the voicing, the action, and the materials are all built to Steinway's concert standards. Many players who try it describe the experience as unlike any other upright they have played. For those who love the Steinway sound but cannot accommodate a grand, this is the closest alternative available.

How does a Steinway upright compare to a Bechstein or Bluthner upright?

All three represent the upper tier of European piano making. A Bechstein or Bluthner upright offers exceptional tonal quality and craftsmanship. A Steinway Model V is considerably rarer than either, built to the same specification as a concert grand in upright form, and commands a premium accordingly. The tonal character differs: Steinway tends toward power and clarity, Bluthner toward warmth and singing tone, Bechstein toward refinement and complexity. The right choice depends on the player's musical priorities.

Is a 1935 Steinway upright still reliable?

A Steinway built in 1935 was made with exceptional materials and craftsmanship that have proven their durability many times over. Properly maintained examples from this period continue to perform at a high level. This instrument has been assessed and prepared by our team at The Piano Gallery, and we are happy to provide detailed information about the work carried out and the current condition of the piano before purchase.

Is this a good investment?

Steinway uprights are among the rarest and most desirable instruments on the used piano market. Well-presented examples in striking finishes like fiddleback mahogany are particularly sought after and have historically held or increased their value. As with any instrument of this rarity and heritage, we always recommend buying primarily for the musical experience, but the investment case for a Steinway Model V is stronger than for almost any other upright piano.