Hummel is a German porcelain company that has been around since the 1930s. Even though Hummels were made in Germany, they became extremely popular in the United States. One was not enough, people would not stop buying them. They soon had to have huge collections of these cute figurines.
During the 1980s and 1990s Hummel collecting was at its peak. A Hummel figurine was the perfect present to give and as a result prices were very high. The value of Hummels depended on a few things. Age was a factor. Hummels manufactured many of the same figurines year after year. However, by looking at the mark underneath the base you can determine the age. Condition was also important. They are delicate items that chip and crack very easily. Also, when examined closely you may see crazing which can hurt the figurines value. Crazing is when an item develops small cracks do to age and storage condition. Size is also a major determiner. Many of the same Hummels came in multiple sizes, some over 2 feet tall. Larger Hummels usually sell for higher prices than smaller ones, as long as condition is good.
The Hummel market really took a hit in the past decade. Many say this was due to internet auctions like EBAY. The market became extremely flooded and the value of Hummels went down drastically. It seems as if many people stopped collecting and the children or grandchildren didn’t appreciate the beauty of these German figurines. An example my father always gives me to show the decline in price is the 1971 Hummel plate. This was highly sought after in the 80s. It could sell for over $2000!!!!! The same plate can now be bought on EBAY for around $50. Please see photos for some additional information including date marks.
Hummel- Goose Girl
Slight Crazing- Click on image to see close-up
Hummel- Stormy Weather
TMK 1- Crown Mark 1935-1949
TMK 2 Full Bee- 1950-1959
TMK 3- 1960-1972
TMK 4- Three Line 1964-1972
TMK 5- 1972-1979
TMK 6- 1979-1991
TMK 7- 1991-2000