Ortigara Accordion Value?

[Narmy5]

Hello! I recently acquired a vintage Ortigara accordion. The No.is 565/93, it was made in Italy and has a placard "Made exclusively for Midwest School of Music". I'm trying to find more about the history and value. I read about the Ortigara family, their music store (Chicago) and affiliation with the Midwest School of Music. I'm not able to find more about the year produced or value. Can you reccomend a place I can go to for more information? Their store closed down and the owners have passed. Any info you have will be greatly appreciated! I've attached pics for reference.

 

[Tom]

Welcome Narmy! My guess is that the accordion was made “Circa 1950” give or take a decade on either side. It could have been made by any number of Italian accordion companies and branded for Ortigara. To me it has notes of Scandalli and Universal. Others may have more detailed or informed guesses. Here in the upper Midwest, if the accordion is in “good to excellent playing condition,” it could go for $200 - $400 depending on marketing. Any degradation in condition or playability will reduce the value accordingly.

 

[Narmy5]

Thank you so much for the information! I'm going to keep digging to see what I can find.

 

[Ben-jammin]

I think Tom’s on the money. Early 50s. Looks like it’s a three reed model. When new it was likely a great instrument for an inspired student, though it looks like this student ran out of inspiration. One thing that should be explained though is that unplayed accordions have interior parts that degrade overtime. For an accurate assessment of the value it really requires someone knowledgeable to check it out to determine how well it plays and if significant work is required on it. It isn’t uncommon for some accordions to cost more to repair than they are worth on the market after they are repaired. But even if it’s not in great playing shape it’s likely worth $50 to $100 as nice looking decor.

 

[Narmy5]

Thank you!