Hummels have been treasured keepsakes for more than seven decades, attracting thousands of collectors enchanted by Berta Hummel's depictions of innocent children. If you have decided that it is time to part with some or all of your collection, you might be wondering how to best go about selling Hummels. After researching the pieces you have and what they might be worth, it is time to list the Hummel figurines for sale and find a buyer. Here's how to sell Hummels:

Determine What You Have

The first step to selling your collection of Hummel figurines is to determine what you have. Make a list of the figures, as well as all of the markings on the underside of the figurine's bases. The numbers can help to identify the figurine's name, while the Goebel mark can help to determine an accurate date for the figurine's production, since the style of this mark has changed several times over the history of Hummel figurines.

You'll also need to note the height of the figurine and whether it has any cracks, chips, or other signs of damage. These factors can both greatly influence the value of Hummel figurines.

Once you have this list, look online to find out as much as you can about the Hummels you have. At a minimum, you'll want to know the name of the figurine and the type of marking on the bottom. Hummel collectors recognize more than a dozen distinct marks, each used at a specific time in Goebel's history.

Determine Its Worth

Once you have a list of your Hummel figurines, you'll want to know how much they are worth before attempting to sell them. Use a value guide to get an idea of the book value. Hummel figurines are listed by name, size, and the design of the trademark on the bottom of the figurine. The value depends on the age, condition, and popularity of the figurine.

Searching the completed listings on eBay often gives a good idea of what a certain figurine has sold for in the past several months. This is one of the fastest ways to determine what the figurine is actively selling for at this time. You can also contact an appraiser to determine the approximate value of your figurine, although with many Hummel figurines this is not necessary, as they are listed in price guides and come up for sale relatively often.

Once you have this 'book value,' that gives you a rough idea of what your Hummel figurine might be worth. However, always remember that your collectible is worth what someone is willing to pay for it. If you can't find a buyer at the “book value,” you might need to lower your sights. Likewise, if you see that the figurine is selling for higher than the value the guidebook places on it, consider raising your price to match.

Prepare to Sell Your Hummel Collection

If your figurines are dusty or dirty, clean them before putting them up for sale. This will make them look more attractive in person and in photos. If you'll be selling online, you'll need to photograph each Hummel. Take several different views of each individual figurine. Use natural light to avoid getting a glare from the camera flash against the figurine's glaze.

List Hummels For Sale

Now that you know what you have and what it's worth, it's time to sell it. There are many ways to sell Hummel figurines. One of the most popular ways to sell Hummels is on the online auction site eBay. There are also websites specializing in the buying and selling of Hummels. Offline, consider placing a classified ad in the newspaper or contacting you local Hummel collectors' club. You can also visit an antique dealer, but be aware that since they are purchasing for resale, they probably will not pay as much for your Hummel figurines as a collector would.

Once you've found someone who is interested in the figurine, it's time to work out the details. Expect to field questions about the figurine, including the type of trademark on its base, as well as any damage such as chips or cracks. Once you've found a buyer and the money changes hands, it's time to send your Hummel figurine off with its new owner.

Shipping Hummel Figurines

If you've sold your Hummel collection over the internet, you'll need to ship the figurines to their new owner. Because Hummels are made of porcelain, wrapping them carefully is of the utmost importance. Use bubble wrap and tissue paper, rather than newspaper, the ink of which can rub off onto the figurine. Spend extra time cushioning the smaller, more fragile pieces that may be part of the design of your Hummel. Make sure there is at least an inch of space on all sides between the figurine and the box, and that you use enough packing material that the Hummel figurine does not move when the box is shaken. Due to their value, you are advised to purchase shipping insurance, just in case they should happen to break during transit.