Antique Piano 132 years old

According to the serial number you list "78406" your piano was made around 1889, the patent date just indicates when that design was first covered by the patent, patents at that time lasting 17 years. While Chickering is noted for its fine piano's age and maker is not a good indicator of value. A piano of this age would require a total rebuild of its internal workings to be playable. Pianos of this vintage unless completely restored often sell for under $1000.00 at auction Lovejoy

I also have an antique upright piano. I found that the best information to get, would be from an older professional piano tuner. Ask if they tune by ear, if yes, then you have an indicator that you probably have a fairly knowledgeable person because he has been doing it for a long time. Befriend the guy when he stops in (they don't typically cost a lot to do the job) and watch. He typically will dismantle most of the piano and point out any problems (i.e. cracked sound board etc.). Mine even told me how to resolve some of the issues! I even found out that the keys had been filed back (which reduced it's value). When done, you will have a lot more information about the unit (and a tuned piano if you can play it!) with which to make a closer evaluation and decision as to what to do next. From that you decide if you want to sell, bring in a professional evaluator, or simply enjoy it! Unfortunately this is simply an item with a lot of internal details that need to be looked at before a close value can be put on it. So Lovejoy's value is probably the best you can get on line. 250chief