A Lap Harp circa 20th century with carved eagle

If you’ve inherited or purchased a 20th-century lap harp (sometimes called a psaltery or plucked zither) that features a carved eagle in the soundboard, you’re dealing with a category that can swing widely in value. Some lap harps are purely decorative “gift shop” instruments; others are functional, well-made, and genuinely collectible.

The specific example that prompted this guide is described as a 15‑string lap harp with an eagle carving set into the center panel and no visible maker’s mark. For comparable mid‑20th‑century, unmarked lap harps in average working condition, a realistic retail/secondary-market range is often $200–$250, with notable upside if the instrument is by a desirable maker or has exceptional workmanship.

What is a “lap harp” (psaltery or plucked zither)?

A lap harp is a small, often trapezoidal or triangular string instrument designed to be played on the lap or a tabletop. Unlike a floor harp, the strings are typically stretched over a flat soundboard and tuned with a row of pins.

In listings, you’ll see overlapping terms—lap harp, psaltery, zither, sometimes autoharp (which is actually a different chorded instrument). For appraisal purposes, what matters most is how the instrument is built and whether it was made as a playable instrument or primarily as a decorative object.

How to date a 20th‑century lap harp

Dating lap harps can be tricky because many were made by small shops, hobbyists, or regional workshops. For mid‑20th‑century examples, use a combination of construction clues:

• Tuning pins and hardware: uniform machine-made pins and screws usually suggest post‑1940 production.
• Adhesives: modern glues and very clean factory seams often indicate later 20th century.
• Finish: thick, glossy polyurethane finishes are generally later than shellac or oil varnish.
• String type: modern steel strings are common; older gut/nylon can signal earlier intent but are often replaced.

If your instrument has no label, check the inside (if accessible) and the back for pencil markings, stamps, or a faint paper label shadow.

Construction checklist (what appraisers look at)

A lap harp’s value is largely determined by playability and workmanship. Here’s the checklist that usually produces the fastest, most accurate valuation.

1) Soundboard and body

• Look for cracks that run with the grain, especially near the bridge and along string tension lines.
• Check for warping (a slight arch can be normal; sudden dips around the bridge are not).
• Inspect edge joints and corners for separations or repairs.

2) Bridge and pin block

• The bridge should be firmly seated; lifting bridges can indicate structural failure.
• Turn a few tuning pins: they should hold tension without slipping.
• Uneven pin spacing or mixed hardware can suggest repairs or hobbyist construction.

3) Carved eagle panel

• Determine whether the eagle is a surface applique, an inlay, or carved through a center panel.
• Look for paint, stains, or tool marks that indicate hand carving versus a routed template.
• Check for looseness: decorative panels can rattle or detach if the adhesive fails.

Does a carved eagle increase value?

Often, yes—but the reason matters. An eagle motif can raise value in two different ways:

• Decorative folk-art appeal: collectors may pay more for a striking carving even if the harp is only lightly playable.
• Maker identity: some regional workshops used distinctive carving styles that help identify origin.

The key is to document the carving (close-ups, tool marks, attachment method) and verify that it does not compromise structural integrity. A heavy carving that weakens the soundboard can reduce value for players.

Condition issues that impact price the most

• Cracked soundboard or open seams: costly repairs, and may never fully stabilize under tension.
• Slipping tuning pins: reduces playability; sometimes fixable, sometimes not.
• Bridge damage: lifting bridges or missing parts can require specialist restoration.
• Non-original refinishing: thick modern finishes can reduce collector interest.
• Missing strings: usually minor, but can hide pin/bridge issues.

Appraisal value guide (USD)

The following range is a practical starting point for a mid‑20th‑century, unmarked 15‑string lap harp with a carved eagle panel:

• Typical secondary-market range: $200–$250 (average condition, playable, no label)
• Lower end: $75–$175 (structural issues, slipping pins, heavy damage, missing bridge parts)
• Upper end: $300–$600+ (known maker, exceptional carving, strong playability, case/provenance)

For insurance, the relevant number is often replacement cost (what it would take to find a comparable item quickly). Replacement cost can be higher than a local-sale price, especially for scarce makers or museum-quality condition.

How to sell a lap harp safely

• Photograph like an appraiser: full front/back, pin row, bridge, and carving details.
• Disclose playability: mention whether it holds tuning and whether any strings buzz.
• Ship like a fragile instrument: detune slightly, pad the pin area, double-box, and insure.
• Choose the right venue: local marketplace for decorative pieces; Reverb/Etsy for player-focused audiences.

What to send an appraiser (fastest way to a confident valuation)

If you want a confident value opinion (and not just a guess), send:

• Overall dimensions and string count
• Close-ups of pins, bridge, and any interior/back markings
• High-resolution photos of the carved eagle and how it is attached
• Condition notes: cracks, repairs, missing strings, tuning stability
• Any provenance (where it came from, receipts, maker story)