Historic 1859 Steinway Concert Grand Piano Offered for Sale by Renowned Musician

John Austin Mulhern, a recognized musician and former owner of Atlantic City Recording Studio, is accepting offers on a vintage 1859 Steinway concert grand piano, a rare instrument representing significant musical heritage. This model #2207 Overstrung piano is one of only a handful manufactured by Steinway between 1859 and 1865, distinguished by its connection to Scottish architect and soldier J. Abercromby, whose name is engraved on a plate along with the model number.

The piano's authenticity is supported by documentation from Roy Kehl, author of The Official Guide to Steinway Pianos, who estimates the instrument's age to be circa 1859. This provenance adds substantial historical significance to the instrument, which features an 85-key Concert Grand design showcasing the craftsmanship of the era. Instruments from this period are extremely rare, making this offering particularly noteworthy for collectors and institutions interested in preserving musical history.

Mulhern's own musical background adds another layer of interest to the instrument's story. As proprietor of Atlantic City Recording Studio during the city's casino boom in the 1980s and 1990s, he hosted some of the country's foremost entertainers and musical artists. His connection to the instrument provides additional context for potential buyers with appreciation for recent music history alongside the piano's 19th-century origins.

The sale of this Steinway piano carries implications for the world of classical music and instrument collection. Steinway pianos are renowned for their quality and longevity, and one from this early period in the company's history could provide valuable insights into 19th-century piano construction and sound production. For musicians, the opportunity to play or own such a historical instrument is rare and could inspire compositions or performances bridging historical and contemporary music traditions.

For researchers and music historians, the instrument represents a valuable subject of study offering a tangible link to the musical landscape of the mid-19th century. The rarity of this Steinway model also makes it a potentially valuable investment, as musical instruments of historical significance become increasingly scarce and their value tends to appreciate over time. This makes the piano an attractive proposition for collectors and investors seeking both cultural and financial value.

Mulhern has indicated willingness to consider reasonable offers to ensure this piece of musical history finds a suitable new home. The sale presents an opportunity for museums, music schools, or private collectors to acquire a unique instrument embodying both the craftsmanship of Steinway & Sons and a slice of 19th-century cultural history. As information about this sale circulates, it is likely to generate significant interest within the music world and beyond, highlighting the enduring legacy of fine musical instruments and their capacity to connect contemporary audiences with historical traditions while inspiring future generations.