Cleaning
The M.I.Hummel web site suggests the following ways to clean your figurines.
- Place piece on a flat surface, covering the air hole.
- Use a clean make-up brush that has been dipped in a solution of lukewarm water and mild soap, such as baby shampoo.
- Brush over the body of the figurine.
- Rinse carefully with a soft cloth dipped in lukewarm water to remove soap.
- Air Dry
Displaying
- Give the figurines plenty of space by not letting them touch each other on the shelf. Especially important with intricate figurines that may have lots of tiny pieces poking out!
- Keep out of temperature extremes which can hasten the onset of crazing.
- Keep out of direct sunlight, fading doesn't happen as quickly with ceramic pieces, but it does happen. Don't take a chance with your precious Hummels.
Dating and Values
- The chart of Hummel marks will help you figure out the time-span in which a Hummel was made.
- The experts pick Robert Miller's The No. 1 Price Guide to M.I. Hummel Figurines, Plates, Miniatures, & More as a terrific resource. But the best recommendation of all, is the fact that the guide is up to edition #10 -- available in August 2006.
Buying
- Look for variations that might be more valuable, e.g. checking Miller's book will help figure out which ones they are.
- Always check carefully damage, especially on the intricate items. A chip will greatly diminish the value.
- When buying on the secondary market always buy from a dealer who will stand behind their product.
- Keep an eye out for the earlier versions which are worth more money. Check the marks chart to easily identify those pieces.
More on Hummels:
- Dating Your Hummels
- Profile: M.I. Hummel and Goebel
- Hummel Club Pieces Picture Gallery
- Celebrating Three Decades of Collector's Club
- Taking Pictures of Your Figurines
Sources include:
M.I.Hummel Web Site
Buy, Keep or Sell by Judith Miller
