Most Valuable Hummel Figurines

Hummel figurines can be charming or terrifying, but it’s hard to deny their longevity. Kitschy and collectible, Hummel figurines sprang into existence in 1935 — as a partnership between the religious artist Maria Innocentia Hummel and the German porcelain maker Goebel.

Maria continued to make set after set of adorable porcelain figures until her death in 1946. Goebel continued to produce Hummel figurines after her death based on sketches of hers that they discovered. 

Hummel figurines transport viewers into a different, simpler time. Focused on childhood innocence and whimsy, they are the quintessential “grandma collectible.” Because of that, their value is quite erratic. You can find decades-old Hummel figurines worth less than $5. Others can be worth thousands.

Another element of the Hummel figurine is that the same character was often reproduced year after year. So, be aware that a 1935 Little Fiddler may not be the same as a 1985 Little Fiddler, even if they look similar in many respects.

These are the most valuable Hummel figurines.

Released: 1938

Sold: Feb. 20, 2022

Price: $150

Bottom line: The Little Cellist is sometimes called “The Musician.” In newer versions, his eyes are closed. The older versions have his eyes open and focused in front of him. Older versions also have a rectangular base rather than a rounded base.

A 60-year anniversary edition of the Little Cellist can actually sell for more than the originals. In the anniversary addition, the Cellist has been decked out with a golden award.

Released: 2000

Sold: Feb. 11, 2022

Price: $160

Bottom line: This unique little sculpture is one of the most valuable Hummel figurines that wasn’t part of the original run.

Rather, this 2000-released figurine depicts a small child reading a newspaper declaring that the Yankees have won.

Released: 1935

Sold: March 12, 2022

Price: $195

Bottom line: This adorable Bookworm is decked out in a festive green dress, looking at an exquisitely painted book of a flower and a duck.

There’s an extraordinary amount of detail in this figurine, from the lace bow in her hair to her slouched socks. 

Released: 1935

Sold: March 4, 2022

Price: $199

Also referred to as “At the Wayside” and “Devotion,” this figurine shows a child praying underneath a large tower in which a statue looks over her.

Also iconic to this figure are a small pine tree and basket, potentially indicating that the girl has stopped wherever she is to pray.