Used Mason & Hamlin Pianos: The Underrated American Grand
Mason & Hamlin is the connoisseur's American piano. Founded in Boston in 1854, it competed head-to-head with Steinway through the early 20th century — many rebuilders will quietly tell you the golden-era Masons were built even heavier. The company survives today in Haverhill, Massachusetts, still building pianos the massive, over-engineered way.
For used buyers this is the classic 'smart money' brand: Steinway-class construction and sound, without the Steinway name premium. Both golden-era instruments (1900s–1930s, worth restoring) and modern Haverhill pianos appear on the used market.
What Mason & Hamlin is known for
- The patented Tension Resonator ('the spider') that locks the rim and preserves soundboard crown for decades
- Massive, wide-tail construction — pound for pound the heaviest-built pianos in their sizes
- A dark, powerful, romantic tone with huge bass for the size
- Golden-era instruments that rival any American piano ever made
Popular used Mason & Hamlinmodels & prices
Model A (5'8")
$12,000–$45,000 used/restoredThe famous 'small piano that sounds big.' Its wide-tail design gives it the soundboard area of much longer grands — a favorite for serious home musicians.
Model BB (7')
$25,000–$80,000 used/restoredThe flagship semi-concert grand and the model that built the legend. A restored golden-era BB is one of the great American pianos, period.
Model 50 (50" upright)
$5,000–$15,000 usedA tall, serious upright built with the same overkill philosophy. Rare used, and worth a look when one appears.
Ranges are typical asking prices for privately sold and dealer-restored instruments in the U.S.; condition, age, and restoration quality move prices substantially.
Mason & Hamlin pianos for sale now
Dealer1979 Mason & Hamlin Model 50
Raleigh, NC
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Maus Piano
Nationwide Delivery Available
Contact for price
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Dealer1979 Mason & Hamlin Model 50
Wexford, PA
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Solich Music
Nationwide Delivery Available
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View detailsBuying a used Mason & Hamlin: what to check
- Golden-era (pre-1932) Masons are restoration-worthy in a way few brands are — the bones justify the investment
- Check that the Tension Resonator is intact and the soundboard holds crown; that's the design's whole advantage
- Mid-century examples (Aeolian ownership years) are more variable — judge those strictly on condition
- Because the brand is less famous than its quality, negotiate accordingly — and move fast when a good one is listed, they don't sit long
Frequently asked questions
Is Mason & Hamlin as good as Steinway?
Many technicians consider golden-era Mason & Hamlins their equal — some prefer them. What Mason lacks is name recognition, which is exactly why used prices are friendlier.
What is the Tension Resonator?
A system of steel rods under the piano connecting the inner rim, patented in 1900. It keeps the rim from spreading over decades, which preserves the soundboard's crown — and with it, the piano's tone.
Selling a Mason & Hamlin piano?
List it free on US Piano Connection and reach buyers nationwide — read our guide to selling your piano or start your listing.