
Are Goebel figurines the same as Hummels?
In the early 1930s, Hummel's drawings were published as postcards by Munich-based publisher Ars Sacra. They soon caught the eye of Franz Goebel—master porcelain maker and owner of the W. Goebel Porzellanfabrik. Goebel decided to render Hummel's drawings as porcelain figurines.
How do you tell if a figurine is a Hummel?
1:053:06They all their different names some of their tell-tale signs are the mi hummel inscription orMoreThey all their different names some of their tell-tale signs are the mi hummel inscription or embossed area on the back.
How much is my Goebel Hummel worth?
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. Thirty-one Hummel Porcelain Plates and Plaques. Sold for $50 via Gray's Auctioneers (February 2020).
Who makes Hummels now?
Hummel figurines were made from porcelain slip poured into a mold, then fired at high temperature as many as four times or more. According to the Goebel history page, in 2008 Goebel is no longer creating the Hummel figurines as they are now crafted by the company Manufaktur Rödental.
How can you tell a fake Goebel?
Goebel makes a lot of other products that are dissociated with the M.I. Hummel name. The stamped or incised trademark may be the best clue as to the authenticity of the item. The TMK is typically found on the bottom of the figurine and is under the glaze so as to be a permanent part of the item.
Are Hummels worth anything 2022?
Value of Hummels in 2022 Anyone who regularly purchased figurines during the heyday of Hummel collecting will almost certainly not recoup their investment. Values have plummeted in recent years as collections are released into the secondary market.
What is the rarest Hummel figurine?
Adventure Bound is the most rare and valuable Hummel figurine. This 8-inch figure depicts seven little boys heading out on an adventure. Models with the “Full Bee” stamp (also called the TMK-2) were created before 1959.
Do Hummels hold their value?
Design, Rarity, and Age Like scarce commodities driving high economic demand, the same goes for Hummel figurines. The early pieces from Sister Maria Innocentia's production years (1935 – 1940) have the highest value because they're rare and hold the sentiment.
How do I know if my Hummels are valuable?
Rarity of Specific Figurines Limited-edition Hummel figurines bring higher values than pieces with much larger production runs. Retired figurines—ones that are no longer on the market—command better prices than pieces that are currently in production. A rare Hummel figurine can bring a value of $1000 or more.
Is Goebel part of Hummel?
Production of Hummel figurines by Goebel was taken over in early 2009 by Manufaktur Rödental GmbH under the direction of Jörg Köster. Following the 2013 bankruptcy of Manufaktur Rödental, a new international management team took over the M.I. Hummel figurine business in 2014.
When did they stop making Hummels?
In 2008, the last Hummel Figurine was produced, ending an era. However, since they are no longer being made, the prices can only go up.
Why do people collect Hummels?
Hummel figurines gained importance during the second world war when American soldiers started purchasing and sending them as a gift to their families. As they are quite awesome, some people adore to keep them in their valuable collections. Nowadays, earlier articles of the hummels are rare to find.
How can you tell if a Hummel is valuable?
General Guidelines for the Value of Hummel FigurinesBigger & Elaborate Pieces. Larger complex pieces tend be priced higher compared to smaller figurines.Condition. Pieces in good condition with no damage are priced highest. ... Rarity. ... Demand. ... Year. ... Adventure Bound. ... Picture Perfect. ... Ring Around the Rosie.
How do I know if my Hummels are valuable?
Rarity of Specific Figurines Limited-edition Hummel figurines bring higher values than pieces with much larger production runs. Retired figurines—ones that are no longer on the market—command better prices than pieces that are currently in production. A rare Hummel figurine can bring a value of $1000 or more.
What is the most valuable Hummel figurine?
Top 8 most Valuable hummels figurinesAppletree boy and apple tree girl :Adventure Bound :Not for you :Serbian Boy:Hungarian girl :Ring around the Rosie :School Boys :Schoolgirls :More items...
Are there any valuable Hummels?
Exception: Certain rare Hummels, such as those taller than 12 inches or those made before 1949, still can fetch four figures. Anything made by the Franklin Mint. The company sells a wide selection of “limited edition” coins, plates, medals and other collectibles, but there's little resale market for any of it.
Why were Hummel figurines only allowed to be made for export during the war?
Hummel figurines were only allowed to be made for export during the war because Adolf Hitler did not like the designs. He believed Hummel drawings and figurines portrayed German children in an unflattering way. But Goebel still continued with a few new models.
When were Hummel figurines first made?
To this day, each M.I. Hummel piece must have the approval of the Convent of Siessen. The first figurines were introduced in 1935 and were immediately successful. "Puppy Love" was the first piece, known also as Hum 1.
How did Sister Hummel die?
She contracted tuberculosis and died in 1946, at age 37.
When was the Goebel Collectors Club founded?
Goebel Collectors Club. In 1977 the Goebel Collectors' Club was born, with over 100,000 collectors joining the first year. The name and scope of the club were changed in 1989 to the M.I. Hummel Club and would focus on Sister Hummel's artwork.
Where was Berta Hummel born?
Berta Hummel's Early Life. Berta Hummel was born in Bavaria and went to the Academy of Applied Arts in Munich. After graduation in 1931 she entered the Convent of Sieseen, an order that emphasized the arts, and soon was producing religious art cards for several German publishers.
Who made the porcelain figurines of Maria Innocentia Hummel?
Sister Maria Innocentia Hummel's religious drawings and paintings, mostly of children, were transformed into porcelain figurines by Franz Goebel. The figurines were well-liked in Bavaria and across Germany and grew in popularity when American soldiers brought them home after World War II.
Is there a Hummel look like?
Like most popular items that are collected, there are Hummel look-a-likes. Check for the marks on the bottom, the sure sign of an authentic Hummel figurine. In 2008, the Goebel company discontinued production of new Hummel figurines.
Who made Hummel figurines?
During World War II when Goebel was prohibited from producing Hummel figurines by Nazi enforcement , the New York City based company, Ars Sacra, stepped in to distribute (and starting in 1940 to manufacture) Goebel and Hummel's designs in the United States. About 50 of these figurines exist, each having a marking indicating "Herbert Dubler, Inc." or "Ars Sacra" and the copyright date. This production ceased once Goebel was able to return to business in the post-war period.
When were Hummel children made?
First Step to Verifying a Hummel Figurine. These cherry-cheeked Hummel children were first produced in 1935 in a partnership with Sister Maria Innocentia (nee Berta Hummel) and Franz Goebel of the German pottery company, Goebel. After a quick inspection of the Hummels in your care, you should find M.I.
Why is the last bee mark called the last bee mark?
This 1970s series is referred to by collectors as the "Last Bee Mark" because it was the final series (for many decades) to include the company' infamous bee. The company began to showcase its name during this period and highlighted the Goebel brand by placing an illustrated bee above the last E in the company's title.
What is the back stamp on Hummel figurines?
Hummel figurines #903-#914 belong to this unique Beswick group; these figurines have a back stamp entitled "Beswick-England," which historians believe refers to the popular porcelain manufacturer of the time. However, once this company was sold, it was revealed that there was no documentation confirming their partnership with the Goebel product. Unfortunately, there are more questions than answers to this odd situation, but this does make them a special collectible.
What year did Hummel make the TMK-2?
TMK-2 (1950-1959) The 1950s were characterized by Hummel's launch of their bee design marks. These stamps depict various differently styled bees sitting inside a V. The company actually changed the bee's shape and size every year from 1956-1959. 3.
How long are Hummel figurine numbers?
These numbers are either 1-4 digits long and refer to a specific Hummel figurine design that's listed in the company's historic catalog.
What is the crown mark on Goebel?
1. TMK-1 (1935-1949) Goebel and Hummel's "Crown Marks" display a logo with the initials WG inscribed underneath a stylized crown in honor of William Goebel, Goebel Company's founder. It's during this period that you also see the M.I. Hummel signature appear at the figurines' bases.
When was the Hummel model made?
The product of these models were completed in 1934 and shown to Sister Maria Innocentia. This is when she agreed that Goebel could use her images to create designs for Hummel figurines with one condition.
Who created the Hummel line of figurines?
Ashtrays. Candle holders. 1934: Goebel started to looking at producing a line of figures that captured the innocent and sweetness of children. Franz Goebel, saw drawings by Sister Maria Innocentia (Berta) Hummel and approached her about creating the Hummel line of figurines.
What did Sister Maria Innocentia Hummel leave behind?
Sister Maria Innocentia Hummel left behind an impressive collection of drawings, allowing the production of figurines to continue after her death.
How to clean a Hummel figurine?
Place your Hummel on a flat surface and cover the air hole on the base of the figurine. Brush over your Hummel using a soft brush such as a makeup brush that has been dipped in lukewarm water with a mild soap. Rinse the figurine carefully with a soft cloth that has been dipped in clean water to remove any soap.
What was the Goebel factory used for?
1939: When the Second World War broke out, the German government only allowed the Goebel factory to produce Hummel figurines for export. During this time of war the Goebel factory was commandeered by the German government to product dinnerware for the German military.
Can you stain a Hummel?
Keeping the Hummel Wrapped in Newspaper (this can stain the finish of the item)
Is Hummel a good price guide?
There are many different types of Hummel items that have been produced and sold over the years. It is a good idea to have a price guide handy if you are planning on becoming a collector or looking to sell your collection. Prices can vary drastically from one place to another.
Is Goebel a Hummel?
Non-Hummel Goebels. There are many different categories of items the Goebel company had created and quite often people become confused with the idea that if it is made by Goebel that it must be a Hummel.
Is M.I. Hummel a Goebel?
Although the M.I Hummel figurines are an important part of the success the Goebel company has enjoyed, these are only one of many different brands created over the years. The following are the marks you may find incised on similar items made by the company but are not Hummels.
What is a Hummel figurine?
You’ve probably seen a Hummel figurine atop somebody’s fireplace—a sweet child reading a book, playing music, or going about their daily task. These porcelain figurines embody the simple beauty of the early 20th century Bavarian countryside. With their soothing pastel colors and adorable characters, the figurines amassed millions ...
Why was Hummel banned?
Hummel was personally attacked for her art. The Hummel figurines were banned in Germany and Goebel was forced to cease production.
What did Hummel do after her death?
She was so prolific in her drawings, new figurines continued to be produced long after her death. A master sculptor then created a clay figurine from the drawing, spending weeks perfecting the shapes, lines, and features in an effort to stay as close to Hummel’s work as possible.
Why are Dubler figurines considered legitimate?
Because Ars Sacra was the first company to publish M.I. Hummel’s work (the initial postcards) and held copyrights to her art, many consider the Dubler figurines as legitimate collector pieces. But Herbert Dubler wasn’t the only one to go after the market gap left by Goebel during World War II.
What did Hummel's drawings represent?
It was at the convent that sister Hummel started drawing sweet children with rosy cheeks performing daily tasks. The drawings represented her childhood in Bavaria —scenes of innocence and sincerity. In the early 1930s, Hummel’s drawings were published as postcards by Munich-based publisher Ars Sacra.
When did Dubler stop selling Hummel?
Dubler brought a number of Hummel’s products from Germany into the United States market—postcards, folders, and later figurines. In 1940, Germany stopped sending products for Dubler to sell.
Where was Berta Hummel born?
Born in 1909 in Massing, Germany, Berta Hummel was encouraged by her parents to develop her artistic talent. When speaking of her creative insight, her mother, Victoria Hummel, said “… a bunch of pretty flowers, a pleasing child’s face, a beautiful evening mood, an autumnal forest.
Why are Hummels so popular?
Consistently popular among collectors are Hummels that 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.
How much are Hummel plates worth?
Hummel plates’ value can range anywhere from $10 to $200.
How did Berta Hummel die?
Berta Hummel died in 1946 following the end of World War II, succumbing to tuberculosis at the young age of 37. The legacy she had begun, however, would live on. Goebel restarted production of Hummel figurines that same year, and soon thereafter, the delightful collectibles were back in demand.
What is the inscription on a Hummel figurine?
Hummel” on the base of a Hummel figurine. First, as a test of authenticity, these Hummels bear the inscription “M.I. Hummel,” as an homage to Sister Maria Innocentia.
What is the mold number on a Hummel figurine?
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.
When were Hummel figurines made?
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:
When were Hummel plates first made?
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.

Berta Hummel's Early Life
Beginnings of Hummel Figurines
- The agreement with Goebel was that Sister Hummel would have the final approval of every piece and it would be incised with her signature. To this day, each M.I. Hummel piece must have the approval of the Convent of Siessen. The first figurines were introduced in 1935 and were immediately successful. "Puppy Love" was the first piece, known also as Hum 1.
Hummel Figurines and World War II
- Hummel figurines were only allowed to be made for export during the war because Adolf Hitler did not like the designs. He believed Hummel drawings and figurines portrayed German children in an unflattering way. But Goebel still continued with a few new models. The effects of the war reached the convent as fuel shortages meant Sister Hummel and some of her fellow nuns had t…
Goebel Collectors Club
- In 1977 the Goebel Collectors' Club was born, with over 100,000 collectors joining the first year. The name and scope of the club were changed in 1989 to the M.I. Hummel Club and would focus on Sister Hummel's artwork. The club is now international and today has more than 100,000 members. Like most popular items that are collected, there are Hummel...
The Legacy of Hummel Collectibles
- There are not many companies or collectibles that are instantly recognizable to everyone, even non-collectors. There has never been a doubt what a Hummel is and even though hundreds of different pieces of numerous size variations have been made over the years, the popularity of these charming Bavarian children has not diminished. Sister Maria Innocentia Hummel may hav…