The top will almost certainly be made of low-value lumber covered with a veneer. This veneer is usually coming off in a few places. The desk having a few of these places are acceptable. If the desk is made of solid hardwood, it may be of great value. Do not cut up a nice piece even if it is in poor repair.
Restorations is possible.
Have someone with experience with antiques look at the piece before you start cutting it up. Taking It Apart Start by unscrewing the top and setting it aside. Choose the left or right hand column of drawers to dismantle. This will depend on your preferences, the place you want to put the desk and the state of repair of the two sides. The large filing cabinet drawer is usually the most valuable.