Hummel Figurines: History, Pricing & Value of Hummel Collectibles

What Are Hummel Figurines?

Both cute and coveted by collectors, Hummel figurines were one of the hottest collectibles of the 20th century. Their appeal continues today, as the scarcity of some styles has driven prices to record heights.

While modestly priced Hummels dominate the market, exceptional examples of these rosy-cheeked children can sell between several hundred to several thousand dollars. Some, such as the “Adventure Bound” figure group, have reached prices over $4,000. At a January 2021 auction at Blackwell Auctions LLC, the sale of a rare Hummel Signs of Spring figure (below) yielded $5,500.

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The History of Hummel Figurines

Stoking such prices is the fascinating history of Hummel figurines, which begins with Bavarian nun Berta Hummel in the early 20th century. Hummel assumed the name of Sister Maria Innocentia in 1931 when she joined a Franciscan convent in southern Germany. Having just completed art school, Hummel dabbled in painting during her early days, depicting the jolly likenesses of rosy-cheeked children in her works. Her fellow sisters encouraged her and even suggested that she sell her work.

It was through such sales that Hummels eventually arrived on the desk of Franz Goebel, the director of a German pottery company. Inspired by Hummel’s endearing designs, Goebel negotiated a collaboration with the Bavarian nun to transform her paintings into ceramic pieces.

Goebel Hummel figurines debuted to the public at the 1935 Trade Fair in Leipzig, Germany, and their success was immediate. Within months, Goebel’s company had begun work on more than 40 additional designs. However, this rapid ascent was cut short in subsequent years with the rise of Nazi control of Europe. Nazi forces soon limited and ultimately ceased Hummel production. They also shuttered the convent that Hummel called home in 1940.

Berta Hummel died in 1946 following the end of World War II, succumbing to tuberculosis at the young age of 37. However, the legacy she had begun would live on. Goebel restarted production of Hummel figurines that same year, and soon thereafter, the delightful collectibles were back in demand. They became particularly popular among American troops stationed in Europe, whose export of Hummels back to the United States as souvenirs for family members fueled early American interest. Goebel worked with immensely talented artists over the years to ensure that the quality and artistry of each Hummel figurine was exceptional and of the same standards as Hummel herself would have expected.

How Much Are Hummel Figurines Worth?

So how much are Hummels worth? In recent decades, the market for Hummels has experienced fluctuations and dips in price, but current market trends suggest that truly outstanding Hummels can still achieve impressive prices at auction. Hummel production by the Goebel company ceased in 2008 when a subsidiary company assumed operation, so it seems the ever-increasing rarity of antique and vintage Hummels over time will support the longevity of the market.

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Which Hummels Are Most Valuable?

For a better sense of Hummels’ value, explore the Hummel figurines’ price list below for some of the quintessential examples in the market today.

“Adventure Bound” Hummel and Multiple Figure Groups

Consistently popular among collectors are Hummels which feature multiple figures, perhaps because such designs are more complex and thus require additional skill to render each narrative effectively. The “Adventure Bound” Hummel is one of the most in-demand multiple-figure groups.

Designed by artist Theo Menzenbach around 1955, the “Adventure Bound” Hummel, mold number #347 in Hummel archives, debuted in American markets in the early 1970s. Since this design was produced over the course of several decades, the value of these figurines depends on their date of execution, which is indicated by the style of the trademark bee found on the bottom of the figurine. “Adventure Bound” figurines that feature the “full bee” trademark (shorthanded as “TMK-2”), for instance, were created before 1959. Hummel expert Heidi Ann von Recklinghausen suggests that these rare Hummel figurines, a few of which are documented in current collections, can range in value from $6,000 to $9,000.

Hummel “Apple Tree Boy” and “Apple Tree Girl”

Among the highest-priced Hummels are the early designs of the “Apple Tree Boy” and “Apple Tree Girl.” Occasionally sold as a matched set, these compositions feature a boy and girl respectively nestled in an apple tree. They’re also recorded as Hummel mold number #142 and #141. Prices for these figurines can vary depending on condition, edition (dating), as well as scale — as both versions were created in three sizes.

Accordingly, the two smaller scale versions, measuring 3.5 and 6 inches respectively, typically sell for several hundred dollars. The colossal versions, marked “142/X,” can be valued, according to Hummel expert Carl F. Lucky, at $26,500 or more.

International Figurines

Another favorite in the field of Hummel collecting is the International series of figurines that debuted in the 1940s. These styles, scattered among the #800 and #900 molds, feature the iconic Hummel figure dressed in the traditional garb of various nationalities, including Serbia, Hungary, and the former Czechoslovakia. Though more generic in their nomenclature than other Hummels with catchy or cute titles, these International figures nevertheless can rank among the most expensive in the market.

Factors That Influence Hummel Figurine Value

Trademarks, age, and even the boxes the figurines are housed in are among the many details that can influence the value of a Hummel. Here’s a more in-depth look at the unique factors that contribute to the value of these beloved collectibles: 

• Trademarks: The first Hummel trademark made its debut in 1935. Out of all the existing trademarks, the first three (TMK-1, TMK-2, and TMK-3) are often considered the most valuable.
• Mold numbers: Mold numbers on the bottom of each Hummel figurine serve as an identifying factor to the specific character it represents. “Apple Tree Girl” and “Apple Tree Boy” (mold numbers #141 and #142) are among the highest-priced Hummel figurines.

• Size: Size can also come into play when determining a Hummel figurine’s value. Some figurines are available in multiple sizes, and oftentimes, the larger sizes are more expensive. However, certain smaller Hummel figurines are considered rare, which may make them more valuable than their larger counterparts.

• Age: Older Hummel figurines (TMK-1, TMK-2, TMK-3) tend to be of higher value and higher cost than newer trademarks such as TMK-7. 

• Box: Figurines that come in their original factory packaging are generally higher in price and value than re-packaged or un-boxed figurines.
• Condition: The overall condition of a Hummel figurine can greatly impact its worth. For example, if a figurine has excessive crazing, chips, or missing paint, its value may be lower than a fully intact figurine.

Hummel Plates

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Though later produced and generally less sought-after than rare Hummel figurines, Hummel plates first emerged in 1971 and were produced by Goebel in commemoration of the 100th anniversary of Hummel’s founding. The first Hummel plate was titled, “Heavenly Angel,” and was crafted in hand-painted porcelain. The value of Hummel plates can vary in the market, depending on the state of their condition and whether or not they’ve retained their original box. Hummel plates’ value can range anywhere from $10 to $200.

Hummel Trademarks

With hundreds of variations of Hummel figurines created since the 1930s, there is an array of exceptional examples in the market, but there are several key characteristics that unite them. These are the three hallmarks to look for:  

1. The inscription “M.I. Hummel”
2. A mold number ranging from 100 to 2,000
3. A trademark in the form of a bee, crown, or the Goebel name

First, as a test of authenticity, these Hummels bear the inscription “M.I. Hummel,” as an homage to Sister Maria Innocentia. Second, they will bear the mold number, which can fall anywhere between #100 and #2000. Third, these figurines should bear a trademark in the form of a bee, a crown, or the Goebel company name. These trademarks are essential in determining the age of the figurine, and determining the age is crucial to assessing its value.

Other Hummel Figurine Markings

Some additional Hummel figurine markings that can help in value assessment include:

• HUM numbers: The HUM number identifies specific Hummel figurines. HUM numbers are stamped or painted onto the base of the figurine and consist of one to four digits.. 
• Decoration designator: Genuine Hummel figurines will bear a designation designator marking following the HUM number.

• Factory control number: The factory control number consists of two digits, and it should be hand-painted or incised on the bottom of the figurine. This important number indicates the person who assembled the figurine.
• Bottom etched number: Bottom etched numbers indicate production years, release years and factory control numbers.

How To Identify Fake Hummel Figurines

One of the easiest ways to determine if a Hummel figurine is an original or a reproduction is by checking its trademark. If the figurine does not possess one of the Hummel trademarks, it’s most likely a fake. The signature M.I. Hummel inscription should be inscribed into the figurine’s ceramic base, and the base will also contain a stamp. Fake Hummel figurines may also weigh less or feel lighter when handled, as reproductions are often made with plaster of Paris instead of porcelain.

How To Sell Old Hummel Figurines

Hummel figurines can be sold online via sites such as eBay, Amazon Marketplace, and Ruby Lane. Look for groups on Facebook and other social media sites that buy or sell Hummels, as these pages may have members that are looking for specific figurines. Many collectors have success by placing their Hummel figurines at auction houses that specialize in Hummel pieces or collectibles in general.

There are also plenty of online auction sites that are happy to list collectible figurines. If you’re planning to sell your Hummel figurines, it may be a good idea to get them appraised before listing them online. An appraiser can easily calculate the true value of your pieces, ensuring you receive a fair amount for every figurine. 

Recapping Hummel Figurines

Hummel figurines are beautifully unique, with intricate detailing and a story behind every piece. Whether you’re interested in adding to your own Hummel collection or you’ve got a friend or relative that’s been collecting the figurines for years, there are many easy ways to buy and sell.. Pay a friendly visit to Invaluable.com and place a bid on your favorite Hummel today.

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