About Goebel Trademarks and M I Hummel identification
The avid collector knows there are always "ways" to identify a genuine M. I. Hummel, or most any collectible for that matter. Very early in the collecting process then, you should familiarize yourself with the identifying marks to assure yourself that the item you are considering IS in fact that which you believe it to be.
M. I. Hummel figurines, bells, and plates are, for the most part, very easy to identify. There are not many collectibles which can be mistaken for a genuine M. I. Hummel. There are two basic identifying marks that let you know you're looking at a genuine M. I. Hummel.
The first is the M. I. Hummel incised signature. It can be found in almost every figurine, base, bell, or plate (there are few exceptions). Many less informed lookers often mistake the "I" for a "J" as it sometimes looks but the M. I. are the initials of Sister Maria Innocentia Hummel; the artist whose drawings are the basis for the figurines. If the item is large enough to hold her incised signature; you should find it there. If it's not there, be wary and look further.
The second identifier is the Goebel trademark found on the underside of the item. Only Goebel Porcellanmanufaktur manufactures M. I. Hummel products and have done since their origin. In 1934, Franz Goebel, fourth generation head of W. Goebel approached Sister Hummel and the convent requesting permission to translate her drawings into three dimensional figurines. This started the relationship between Goebel and the Siessen Convent that exists still today. Goebel trademarks have changed over the years but remain on every item. These changes in trademarks are now used to help determine the age of a piece. Hummel collectors are most curious to identify the Goebel trademark on an item . Below are the trademarks. Some marks overlapped, some changed in minor ways more frequently making it easier to identify a birthday of an item. Only major changes, not the subtle changes, are listed here.
This is the simplest most reliable list as provided by the M. I. Hummel Collector's Club for it's members.
Variations in like pieces occur often and may or may not impact the value of the piece. Subtle differences in molds, paints, and marks help to give the Hummel collector new avenues to explore. I have several of the same mold number figurine just because of a subtle difference which I found of interest. Sometimes, the mold number is changed due to additions to the line, thru some manufacturing decision or master sculptor's interpretation. These differences should always be noted and investigated to determine its impact on the value of the piece. Market value is ever changing and always dependent on supply and demand. Therefore, when a collectible is temporarily withdrawn from production or retired from production; its value is affected. Items of "Limited Production" or "Special Edition" have greater potential for value changes by nature. As a collectible ages, its' value usually increases. The condition of a collectible always affects the value of a collectible. Often, a broken piece or a piece in disrepair is markedly less valuable than a well maintained piece. Some changes in condition are acceptable such as crazing of the glaze with Hummel figurines.(Even excessive crazing may impact value, however) Also, having the original packaging usually plays very little role in determining the value of a collectible although it may definitely help keep it safe during a move, etc.
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