The short version
- Typical range: £40 – £250
- Biggest single factor: condition — see the table below
- Category: Music & Instruments
- Cost to sell on WishThrift: nothing, at any price
What a used flute is worth by condition
Condition does more to the price than anything else. These figures are worked from the top of the range for flutes, so treat them as a starting point and adjust for the specifics of yours.
| Condition | Typical price | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| New with Tags | £250 | Unused, tags or seals intact |
| Like New | £212 | Barely used, no visible wear |
| Good | £162 | Light signs of use, complete and working |
| Fair | £112 | Heavily used, or a described fault or missing part |
| For Parts | £62 | Not working or incomplete, sold as seen |
These are the five grades WishThrift listings use, and sellers set the grade themselves — see what each condition grade means. Figures are shown in pounds as a reference point. On WishThrift prices display in your own currency, and sellers set their own asking price.
What raises the value of a flute
- Solid silver head joints
- Pads sealing cleanly with no leaks
- Recognised makers with a following
- Case, cleaning rod and cloth included
What lowers it
- Leaking pads needing a repad
- Bent keys and rods from drops
- Dents in the body and head joint
- Student models in plated nickel
How to work out what yours is worth
- Press each key and check the pads seal
- Look down the body for dents
- Check the head joint markings for silver content
Once you have those three answers you can place your own flute on the table above with reasonable confidence. If it sits between two rows, price it toward the lower one — items priced honestly sell faster than items priced hopefully.
Ready to sell it? Listing on WishThrift is free, there is no commission, and you keep the full amount you agree with the buyer — see how selling works or create a free account.
Frequently asked questions
What makes a flute more valuable?
A solid silver head joint, which is the main price division between student and intermediate instruments.
What is a repad?
Replacing all the pads so the instrument seals properly. It is a significant cost, so leaking pads reduce value noticeably.
Do dents matter?
Yes, particularly in the head joint, where they affect tone. Look down the tube against the light.
More value guides: music & instruments guides · all value guides · browse live music & instruments listings.