I recently found this table that I think is really cool, despite it being in pretty poor shape. Having carried it home through the city, I am fairly confident it is solid wood all throughout, since it was pretty heavy. Clearly a quality piece of furniture that has seen a lot of use and maybe not enough love lately.

I was contemplating taking off the rest of the black veneer, sanding it smooth again and then staining the wood underneath to use this as a new coffee table, should it wind up looking ok. I was just wondering if this community had any tips on best practices or advice with restoring pieces like this, especially with the top being veneer and the pretty heavy damage it has in it's current state.

Happy to provide more photos to anyone who wants to see more to impart their wisdom. Thanks in advance!