(Photograph courtesy of Dana Johnson.)

A probable piano serial number and the manufacturing date die-stamped on the back of the main piano action rail in Wurlitzer Orchestra Piano, Style CX, serial number 37218, which dates from 1919, Although a bit hard to discern in this photograph, the apparent serial number reads 38401, which is a 1919 Wurlitzer date. Thus, in this instance the piano serial number and the serial number stamped into the main action rail do not coincide, suggesting that this piano action might not be factory original to this particular instrument. The date code is 7-17-19, for July 17, 1919.

(Photograph courtesy of Dana Johnson.)

Close-up of the die-stamped serial number and date code on the main piano action rail pictured in the above photograph. Using enhanced lighting to better shadow the detail the otherwise less obvious numbers stand out is relief. The top number 38401 is an apparent piano serial number, while the lower date code represents July 17, 1919.