The Ultimate Guide to Hummel Values: Everything You Need to Know About Collecting and Valuing Hummel Figurines
Complete Hummel Value Guide
If you are a collector or a seller of Hummel figurines, you might be wondering how much they are worth and how to determine their value. Hummels are one of the most popular and sought-after collectibles in the world, but their prices can vary widely depending on many factors. In this article, we will provide you with a complete guide on how to identify, value, sell, and buy Hummels. We will also answer some frequently asked questions about these charming porcelain figurines.
Complete Hummel Value Guide
What are Hummels?
Hummels are small porcelain figurines that depict children, animals, religious scenes, or other themes. They are based on the drawings of a German nun named Maria Innocentia (Berta) Hummel, who lived from 1909 to 1946. She was an artist and a teacher who loved to sketch children in their everyday activities. Her drawings caught the attention of Franz Goebel, the owner of a porcelain company, who obtained the rights to turn them into figurines in 1934. Since then, Hummel figurines have been produced by the Goebel company in Germany and distributed worldwide.
The history of Hummel figurines
The first Hummel figurines were introduced in 1935 at the Leipzig Trade Fair. They were an instant success and soon became popular among collectors and admirers. The figurines were made with fine craftsmanship and attention to detail, capturing the innocence and joy of childhood. They also reflected the social and cultural context of Germany at that time, such as the Nazi regime, the World War II, and the post-war recovery. Some of the most famous and rare Hummel figurines are those that depict Hitler Youth, stormtroopers, refugees, or American soldiers.
The characteristics of Hummel figurines
Hummel figurines are usually between 4 and 8 inches tall, although some can be larger or smaller. They are made of earthenware clay that is fired at high temperatures and then glazed with various colors. They have a matte finish that gives them a soft and natural look. They are also hand-painted with fine brushes and sometimes embellished with gold or silver accents. Each figurine has a unique expression and personality that reflects the original drawing by Berta Hummel.
The types and categories of Hummel figurines
Hummel figurines can be classified into different types and categories based on their themes, sizes, shapes, or production periods. Some of the most common types are:
Regular figurines: These are the standard figurines that depict children or animals in various poses and situations.
Nativity figurines: These are figurines that depict scenes from the birth of Jesus Christ, such as Mary, Joseph, baby Jesus, angels, shepherds, or animals.
Plaques: These are flat figurines that can be hung on the wall or displayed on a stand. They usually have a religious or inspirational message or a scene from the Bible.
Ornaments: These are small figurines that can be hung on a Christmas tree or a wreath. They usually have a festive or seasonal theme, such as Santa Claus, snowmen, or bells.
Music boxes: These are figurines that have a musical mechanism inside them that plays a tune when wound up. They usually have a musical or dancing theme, such as a violinist, a ballerina, or a carousel.
Hummel figurines can also be categorized by their production periods, which are marked by different styles, colors, and marks. Some of the most notable periods are:
Crown mark period (1935-1949): This is the earliest period of Hummel production, when the figurines had a crown-shaped mark on their base. The figurines from this period are highly valued for their rarity and quality.
Full bee mark period (1950-1959): This is the period when the figurines had a stylized bee mark on their base, which was later modified into different variations. The figurines from this period are considered to be the most collectible and desirable.
Last bee mark period (1960-1972): This is the period when the figurines had a smaller bee mark on their base, which was sometimes accompanied by other symbols or letters. The figurines from this period are still sought-after by collectors and enthusiasts.
New mark period (1973-present): This is the current period of Hummel production, when the figurines have a new mark on their base that consists of a circle with the word "Goebel" and a date. The figurines from this period are more modern and diverse in their themes and designs.
How to identify Hummels?
One of the most important steps in valuing Hummels is to identify them correctly. There are many imitations and reproductions of Hummel figurines in the market, so you need to be careful and knowledgeable about how to distinguish the authentic ones from the fake ones. Here are some tips on how to identify Hummels:
The marks and stamps on Hummels
The easiest way to identify Hummels is to look at the marks and stamps on their base. As mentioned above, Hummel figurines have different marks depending on their production periods. These marks can tell you the age, origin, and authenticity of the figurine. You can use online guides or books to compare your figurine's mark with the official ones. You should also look for other stamps or labels that indicate the model number, name, artist, or edition of the figurine. These can help you identify the specific type and category of your Hummel.
The model numbers and names of Hummels
Another way to identify Hummels is to look at their model numbers and names. Each Hummel figurine has a unique model number that corresponds to its design and theme. You can find this number on the base of the figurine or on its original box or certificate. You can also find the name of the figurine, which is usually based on its main character or motif. For example, some of the most popular Hummel names are "Apple Tree Boy", "Stormy Weather", "Merry Wanderer", or "School Girl". You can use online catalogs or databases to search for your figurine's model number and name and learn more about its history and value.
The condition and rarity of Hummels
A final way to identify Hummels is to look at their condition and rarity. The condition of a Hummel figurine refers to its physical state and appearance. It can affect its value significantly, depending on how well it has been preserved and maintained over time. You should look for any signs of damage, wear, tear, repair, restoration, or alteration on your Hummel. You should also check for any cracks, chips, scratches, stains, fading, crazing, or missing parts. The rarity of a Hummel figurine refers to its availability and demand in the market. It can affect its value positively, depending on how unique and desirable it is among collectors and buyers. You should look for any features that make your Hummel rare, such as limited edition, special edition, discontinued model, signature piece, variation piece, or prototype piece.
How to value Hummels?
How to value Hummels?
Once you have identified your Hummel figurine correctly, you can proceed to value it accordingly. Valuing Hummels is not an exact science, but rather an art that requires research, comparison, and judgment. There are many factors that can affect the value of a Hummel figurine, such as its age, condition, rarity, demand, and market trends. Here are some tips on how to value Hummels:
The factors that affect Hummel values
The first step in valuing Hummels is to understand the factors that affect their values. Some of the most important factors are:
Age: Generally speaking, older Hummels are more valuable than newer ones, especially those from the crown mark period or the full bee mark period. However, age is not the only factor that matters, as some newer Hummels can be more valuable than older ones if they are rare or in high demand.
Condition: As mentioned above, the condition of a Hummel figurine can affect its value significantly. A Hummel figurine in mint condition, meaning that it has no flaws or defects and has its original box and certificate, can be worth much more than a Hummel figurine in poor condition, meaning that it has major damage or repairs and has no box or certificate.
Rarity: Another factor that affects Hummel values is rarity. A Hummel figurine that is rare, meaning that it has a low production number, a limited edition, a special edition, a discontinued model, a signature piece, a variation piece, or a prototype piece, can be worth more than a Hummel figurine that is common, meaning that it has a high production number or a regular edition.
Demand: A final factor that affects Hummel values is demand. A Hummel figurine that is in high demand, meaning that it has a lot of buyers and collectors who are willing to pay a premium price for it, can be worth more than a Hummel figurine that is in low demand, meaning that it has few buyers and collectors who are interested in it.
The sources and methods of Hummel appraisal
The second step in valuing Hummels is to use reliable sources and methods of appraisal. Appraisal is the process of estimating the fair market value of an item based on its characteristics and market conditions. There are different sources and methods of appraisal that you can use to value your Hummel figurine, such as:
Online guides and books: These are resources that provide information and pictures of various Hummel figurines and their values. You can use them to compare your Hummel figurine with similar ones and get an idea of its value range. Some examples of online guides and books are The Official M.I. Hummel Price Guide by Heidi Ann Von Recklinghausen or The No. 1 Price Guide to M.I. Hummel by Robert L. Miller.
Online auctions and sales: These are platforms where you can see how much other people are selling or buying similar Hummel figurines for. You can use them to check the current market prices and trends of your Hummel figurine and get an idea of its value potential. Some examples of online auctions and sales are eBay or Ruby Lane.
Professional appraisers and dealers: These are experts who have the knowledge and experience to evaluate your Hummel figurine accurately and objectively. You can use them to get a professional opinion and a written appraisal report of your Hummel figurine's value. Some examples of professional appraisers and dealers are The International Association of Appraisers or The Goebel Collector's Club.
The average prices of Hummels by category
The third step in valuing Hummels is to look at the average prices of Hummels by category. This can give you a general idea of how much your Hummel figurine is worth based on its type and category. However, you should keep in mind that these prices are only estimates and can vary depending on the specific features and conditions of your Hummel figurine. Here are some examples of average prices of Hummels by category:
Category Average Price --- --- Regular figurines $50-$500 Nativity figurines $100-$1000 Plaques $200-$2000 Ornaments $20-$200 Music boxes $100-$1000 How to sell or buy Hummels?
After you have valued your Hummel figurine, you might want to sell it or buy more. Selling or buying Hummels can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it can also be challenging and risky. You need to be careful and smart about how to sell or buy Hummels effectively and safely. Here are some tips on how to sell or buy Hummels:
The best places and platforms to sell or buy Hummels
The first tip on how to sell or buy Hummels is to choose the best places and platforms to do so. There are different places and platforms where you can sell or buy Hummels, such as:
Online auctions and sales: These are platforms where you can list your Hummel figurine for sale or bid on other people's Hummel figurines. You can reach a large and global audience of buyers and sellers and get competitive prices for your Hummel figurine. However, you also have to pay fees and commissions to the platform and deal with shipping and handling issues. Some examples of online auctions and sales are eBay or Ruby Lane.
Local auctions and sales: These are events where you can bring your Hummel figurine for sale or browse other people's Hummel figurines. You can meet face-to-face with buyers and sellers and inspect the Hummel figurines in person. However, you also have to travel to the location of the event and deal with bidding and negotiation issues. Some examples of local auctions and sales are estate sales or antique shows.
Consignment shops and dealers: These are places where you can leave your Hummel figurine for sale or buy other people's Hummel figurines. You can benefit from the expertise and reputation of the shop or dealer and get a fair price for your Hummel figurine. However, you also have to pay fees and commissions to the shop or dealer and wait for your Hummel figurine to be sold or delivered. Some examples of consignment shops and dealers are The Goebel Collector's Club or The International Association of Appraisers.
The tips and tricks to sell or buy Hummels effectively
The second tip on how to sell or buy Hummels is to use some tips and tricks to do so effectively. There are some tips and tricks that can help you sell or buy Hummels faster, easier, and better, such as:
Research the market: Before you sell or buy a Hummel figurine, you should research the market and see what other people are selling or buying similar Hummel figurines for. This can help you set a realistic price for your Hummel figurine and avoid overpaying or underselling.
Take good pictures: When you sell a Hummel figurine online, you should take good pictures of it from different angles and with good lighting. This can help you showcase the features and condition of your Hummel figurine and attract more buyers.
Write a good description: When you sell a Hummel figurine online, you should write a good description of it that includes its name, model number, mark, size, condition, history, and any other relevant information. This can help you provide more details and facts about your Hummel figurine and convince more buyers.
Ask questions: When you buy a Hummel figurine online or in person, you should ask questions about it to the seller. This can help you verify the authenticity and value of the Hummel figurine and avoid any surprises or disappointments.
Check feedback: When you buy a Hummel figurine online, you should check the feedback of the seller. This can help you see how reliable and trustworthy the seller is and how satisfied other buyers are with their transactions.
Pay securely: When you buy a Hummel figurine online, you should pay securely using a reputable payment method or service. This can help you protect your money and personal information from frauds or scams.
The common scams and pitfalls to avoid when selling or buying Hummels
The third tip on how to sell or buy Hummels is to avoid some common scams and pitfalls that can ruin your experience. There are some scams and pitfalls that can harm you financially or emotionally when selling or buying Hummels, such as:
Fake or counterfeit Hummels: These are Hummel figurines that are not authentic but made to look like they are by using fake marks, stamps, labels, boxes, certificates, or signatures. They are usually sold at low prices but have low quality and value.
Damaged or repaired Hummels: These are Hummel figurines that have been damaged or repaired in some way, such as cracks, chips, scratches, stains, fading, crazing, missing parts, glue, paint, or gold. They are usually sold at high prices but have low quality and value.
Overpriced or underpriced Hummels: These are Hummel figurines that are sold at prices that are too high or too low compared to their actual value. They are usually sold by sellers who are either ignorant or dishonest about the market prices and trends of Hummels.
Non-delivery or non-payment: These are situations where the seller does not deliver the Hummel figurine to the buyer or the buyer does not pay the seller for the Hummel figurine. They are usually caused by dishonesty, fraud, or miscommunication between the parties involved.
Conclusion
Hummels are beautiful and valuable collectibles that can bring joy and satisfaction to collectors and sellers alike. However, they can also be challenging and risky to deal with if you are not careful and knowledgeable about how to identify, value, sell, and buy them. In this article, we have provided you with a complete guide on how to do so effectively and safely. We hope that this guide will help you enjoy your Hummel collection or business more and avoid any problems or regrets.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions and answers about Hummels:
Q: How can I tell if my Hummel is rare?
A: You can tell if your Hummel is rare by looking at its features and comparing it with other Hummels. Some features that make a Hummel rare are:
A low production number or a limited edition
A special edition or a signature piece
A variation piece or a prototype piece
A discontinued model or a retired piece
A unique theme or design
Q: How can I clean my Hummel?
A: You can clean your Hummel by using a soft cloth and a mild soap. You should avoid using any harsh chemicals or abrasives that can damage the glaze or the paint of your Hummel. You should also avoid immersing your Hummel in water or exposing it to extreme heat or cold.
Q: How can I store my Hummel?
A: You can store your Hummel by using its original box and certificate if you have them. You should also use a protective case or a display cabinet that is dust-free and moisture-free. You should avoid placing your Hummel in direct sunlight or near heat sources that can cause fading or cracking.
Q: How can I insure my Hummel?
A: You can insure your Hummel by getting an appraisal from a professional appraiser or dealer and then contacting your insurance company. You should also keep a record of your Hummel's details and pictures in case of loss or damage.
Q: How can I donate my Hummel?
A: You can donate your Hummel by finding a charity or an organization that accepts Hummels as donations. You should also get a receipt from them for tax purposes. Some examples of charities or organizations that accept Hummels as donations are The Goebel Collector's Club Foundation or The M.I. Hummel Foundation. 71b2f0854b