How to Determine the Value of Hummels

Hummel figurines depict the innocence of childhood.

In the early 1930s, Franz Goebel, the owner of a porcelain business, joined with the artist Sister Maria Innocentia Hummel to make porcelain figurines inspired by her artwork depicting children. The first Hummel figurines appeared in 1935, according to the M.I. Hummel website, and are now worth hundreds and even thousands of dollars to collectors. Certain markings identify true Hummels.

Instructions

1. Familiarize yourself with the Hummel trademark symbols; there are eight, according to the Deutsches Haus website. The trademarks represent the different periods in which the Hummel pieces were crafted.

2. Identify the mold number. The mold number identifies each new Hummel. Slashes and other numbers were added later on the same type of figurine to depict the different sizes of that particular Hummel.

3. Know the difference in sizes. One Hummel may be considered valuable because that particular piece is in a rare size.

4. Consult a book on the value of specific Hummel pieces. Two good resources are "Luckey's Hummel Figurines & Plates," by Carl F. Luckey and "The No. 1 Price Guide to M.I. Hummel Figurines, Plates, Miniatures & More," by Robert L. Miller.

5. Consider the condition of your Hummel; this will make a significant difference in the value. Cracks, chips or crazing will decrease the price you can get for a figurine.

6. Consult a certified appraiser. Appraisers know what makes Hummel pieces increase in value. They also can detect whether a piece has been repaired in any way. Their knowledge will help you determine whether you are being offered a fair price for your figurine. You can find a reputable appraiser through the American Society of Appraisers. For collectibles such as Hummels, you will need a personal property appraiser, who can give you a certificate of appraisal. Such certificates are needed to insure items and to get a fair resale value.

References

• Deutsches Haus: Hummel Trademark Symbols
• M.I. Hummel: An Artist's Life

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish