The field of Hummel collecting is very confusing to the novice collector. It is
not that Hummel figurines are hard to find, it is that the values vary so
widely.
Why does one collector value his/her collection so much higher than another? The
answer lies in the details. Retired Hummels will command a much higher price
than a new piece. The older the mark, the more desirable the figurine. Some of
the figurines had very limited sales and are therefore rare to scarce. The new(
last 10 -20 years) pieces still have the Hummel quality, but are being produced
in mass quantities. These will be found at the most affordable prices.
For the discerning collector, finding a charming piece with a “Crown” mark or
“Full Bee” mark is prime and well worth the higher price being asked.
A close study of the various marks, of which there are 8 major divisions from
the Crown marks in the first years, 1935-1955, to the most recent marks from
2000 to present, will find many sub-categories. Slight
variations and changes in the marks enable the expert collector to narrow the
production time of the item to the year of manufacture.
Caution should be exercised when buying. Many vendors will only name the piece
and do not reveal the date or back stamp. You may pay a high price for a new
piece. Always inquire and research! Book prices will indicate the mark and
year. The same named piece may have very different “book” values.
Above all, condition should be the prime factor in selecting a piece to add to
the collection.