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I'm hoping for advice. We are looking to buy a piano for our son to practice on. He is 5 (learning Suzuki method), but better about practicing and more serious about learning piano than his age might suggest. We cannot afford a new piano. We have seen a 1985 Hamilton (made by Baldwin) for sale in our community for $1300. I believe there is some distinction between a Baldwin Hamilton and a Hamilton, but I'm not sure I understand it. This one is serial # 395352, style 5021WAL. On the inside, it says its made by Baldwin in the U.S. The name Hamilton is centered above the keys.
Could anyone give advice on whether $1300 is a fair price. Is this a decent piano? It seemed to be in good shape. We're hoping for a piano that would be good for our son to learn on over the next 5-10 years, before we might upgrade. Thank you for any advice!!!

There is no distinction between Hamilton and Baldwin Hamilton. They are good, solid, workhorse pianos. The price is okay if it is in good condition, but I have seen them cheaper. It usually depends on the motivation of the seller and the local market.

When I first looked for a piano for myself 35 years ago, it was possible to get fairly decent old uprights, but they have become aged. The studio pianos of the '50s and '60s have replaced them in the market, but they are not as common, as fewer of them were made. One made in 1985 would now be the equivalent of a post-war piano then, and command more than the earlier pianos.

An average of around $800 is what I've seen for these pianos. I've also heard my technician say that Baldwin Hamiltons from the 50's and 60's are better than the ones from later on but I don't know how true that is and in what ways better.

When I was looking on craigslist in the Boston area about two years ago the prices ranged from about $800 to $2500. I found one from about 1974 from a private seller and paid $2000 plus shipping. We purchased it from the original owner and it was in excellent condition. $1300 seems like a good price. I would have it inspected by a registered piano technician before deciding whether to purchase it and hire professional piano movers.