How to refinish old desk

I found this desk on the side of the road and thought it would be a fun little project. I know there's a lot of veneer on it. It's a Bassett Further Industries Old Salem Desk. Not quite sure if the top is coated with something or a different type of material, it's very shiny, hard and smooth. I know I have to be very careful sanding veneer, but are there other suggestions?