Hummel figurines are porcelain pieces produced by the W. Goebel Porzellanfabrik in Rodental, Germany, based on the drawings of Franciscan nun Sister Maria Innocentia Hummel (1909-1946). Since their introduction in 1935, over 700 distinct models have been produced, creating one of the largest and most organized collector markets for any single ceramics line. The trademark on the base — which changed in a documented sequence over the decades — provides a precise dating system that any collector can learn to read.
The value landscape for Hummel is sharply bifurcated. Common figurines produced in the millions from the 1970s through the 1990s sell for $10-50 regardless of retail prices paid. But early Crown mark pieces (1935-1949), rare "Closed Number" molds that were designed but never put into regular production, color variations that differ from standard production, and the largest size versions of any model can be worth $500-$10,000+. The key is knowing which pieces are genuinely rare versus which are simply no longer in production.
The organized Hummel collector community maintains detailed records of every model, mold number, size designator, and trademark variation. Reference books (Luckey's Hummel Figurines & Plates) and the M.I. Hummel Club provide rarity information and recent price guides. Our AI identifies trademark periods from base photographs and cross-references model numbers against auction records to provide market-based value estimates.
Types of Hummel Figurine We Value
Upload a photo of any of the following — our AI identifies type, period, and condition from images.
Price Ranges by Style & Period
Verified hammer prices from Sotheby's, Christie's, Bonhams & Heritage Auctions. Maker attribution and provenance can push individual pieces well above these ranges.
| Style | Period | Typical Range | Key Value Driver |
|---|---|---|---|
| Crown Mark (TMK-1) | 1935-1949 | $100 - $5,000+ | Earliest mark; pre-WWII and immediate post-war production; condition critical — chips to hands and faces common |
| Full Bee (TMK-2) | 1950-1959 | $50 - $1,000+ | Post-war early production; still significantly more valuable than later marks for the same model |
| Stylized Bee (TMK-3) | 1960-1972 | $30 - $500 | Transition period; modest premiums over later marks; color variations from this period most sought |
| Three Line & Vee Bee (TMK-4 & 5) | 1964-1979 | $20 - $200 | Common production period; value only in rare mold numbers or color variations |
| Missing Bee & Later (TMK-6+) | 1979-present | $10 - $100 | Mass production era; common figurines worth $10-50; value only in discontinued or very rare mold numbers |
| Closed Number & Special Molds | Various | $500 - $10,000+ | Models designed but produced in very limited quantities; documented in reference books; require expert identification |
| Large Size (Size 5 & above) | 1935-present | $200 - $3,000+ | Any model in the largest available size commands premiums; rarest size designators for popular models most valuable |
| Annual Plates | 1971-present | $5 - $500 | 1971 first edition "Heavenly Angel" most valuable; 1972-1975 plates next; 1980s-90s plates have minimal value |
Condition, provenance, and documented maker attribution significantly affect realized prices.
What Affects Hummel Figurine Value?
These six factors account for the majority of price variation at auction. Understanding them before you sell — or buy — can make a substantial difference.
The trademark on the base is the single most reliable dating tool and the primary value determinant for common models. Crown mark (TMK-1, 1935-1949) is worth 3-5x the same model with a later mark. Full Bee (TMK-2, 1950-1959) is worth 2-3x. Later marks (TMK-6+) are the most common and least valuable. Our AI identifies trademark periods from clear base photos.
Each Hummel model has an HUM (or M.I. Hummel) mold number. Some numbers were produced in the millions; others are Closed Numbers — designed but produced in very small quantities before being withdrawn. Reference books document which mold numbers are rare. "Adventure Bound" (HUM 347) and "The Merry Wanderer" wall plaque (HUM 92) are examples of high-value mold numbers.
Hummel figurines sometimes appear in color variations that differ from the standard production color scheme — different dress colors, hat colors, or flesh tones from specific production periods. These variations, particularly from the Crown and Full Bee periods, can be worth 2-10x the standard colorway of the same model. Color variations must be carefully documented against reference standards.
Most Hummel models were produced in multiple sizes (marked with Roman numerals or size designators on the base). The largest available size of any model is always rarest and most valuable. Size 5 (large) versions of popular models can be worth 5-10x the same model in size 1 (small).
Chips to fingers, flowers, birds, or other extremities are extremely common on Hummel figurines — these are the most fragile areas. Any chip reduces value by 30-60%. Hairline cracks at the base are damaging. Mint condition with original Goebel box commands the highest prices. Common later-mark figurines with chips have minimal value.
Original Goebel boxes with the figurine style number and certificate of authenticity add value, particularly for limited editions and special pieces. The M.I. Hummel Club produced exclusive pieces for members — these have their own documented series and limited availability that adds collector interest.
How to Get Your Hummel Figurine Valued
Take well-lit photos of front, back, sides, and any maker marks or signatures. Include close-ups of the base, hardware, and any labels. The more detail, the more accurate the valuation.
Upload to our Quick Valuation Tool for an instant price range based on comparable sold items from Sotheby's, Christie's, and 40+ other auction houses.
Verify your result by browsing Hummel Figurine auction records filtered by date range, price, and auction house.
Generate a certified appraisal report for insurance, estate planning, or resale — accepted by most insurers and estate attorneys as supporting documentation.
Upload a photo of your hummel figurine and get an instant price range in seconds, backed by 5M+ real auction results.
Notable Makers & Their Values
Attribution to a documented maker can multiply value tenfold or more. These are the most sought-after names at major auction houses and institutions.
Frequently Asked Questions
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