How to Identify Hummel Figurines
How to Identify Hummel Figurines
Learn how to identify authentic hummel figurines using visual characteristics, maker marks, and expert tips. Based on 86 hummel figurines items in the InstAppraisal archive.
🔍Key Identification Characteristics
Visual and physical traits that help identify authentic hummel figurines
- 1 Soft, matte-finish pastel colors depicting children in rural Bavarian settings
- 2 Round, cherubic faces with large eyes and rosy cheeks — based on Sister Maria Innocentia Hummel's illustrations
- 3 Smooth, high-quality porcelain body with even glaze coverage
- 4 Typical height 4-8 inches, though rare oversized and miniature versions exist
- 5 Flat or slightly concave base with an incised mold number and trademark
- 6 Subtle hand-painted details — each figurine shows minor variations in brushwork
🔎Common Marks & Labels
Stamps, signatures, and labels to look for on hummel figurines
- Goebel trademark on the base — the specific mark dates the piece (TMK-1 "Crown" 1935-1949 through TMK-8 2000+)
- Incised mold number identifying the specific figurine design (e.g., "Hum 71" for Stormy Weather)
- "W. Germany" or "Western Germany" indicates production from 1949-1990
- "Germany" alone may indicate pre-1949 or post-reunification production
- "M.I. Hummel" facsimile signature incised on the base — appears on all authentic pieces
💡Expert Tips
Date your Hummel using the Goebel trademark on the base: TMK-1 (Crown, 1935-49) and TMK-2 (Full Bee, 1950-56) are the most valuable. TMK-6 and later (1979+) are generally the least valuable unless they are rare molds
Look for "Possible Factory Flaw" (PFE) or "Open Edition" (OE) designators in collector guides — closed-edition figurines that were produced for a limited time are worth more than open editions
Condition is critical: even a tiny chip on the nose or fingertip reduces value by 50% or more. Check extremities carefully with a magnifying glass under bright light
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Hummel Figurines Value Guide
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