What Happened to M.I. Hummel Figurines?
M.I. Hummel figurines, based on the art of Sister Maria Innocentia Hummel, rose to global prominence after World War II as cherished collectibles. After experiencing a market peak and subsequent decline, the brand faced multiple bankruptcies and ownership changes, but continues production today under Hummel Manufaktur GmbH, focusing on limited editions and direct engagement with its dedicated collector base.
Quick Answer
Hummel Figurines are still produced today by Hummel Manufaktur GmbH in Rödental, Germany, under the ownership of M.E. Zukerman & Co. since 2018. While the mass-market value of common figurines has significantly declined from its peak in the late 20th century, rare, early pieces with specific trademarks and in pristine condition continue to command high prices among dedicated collectors. The company has shifted its strategy to focus on limited production, direct sales, and fostering its collector community as of 2026.
📊Key Facts
📅Complete Timeline17 events
Birth of Berta Hummel
Berta Hummel, the artist whose drawings would inspire the figurines, was born in Massing, Bavaria, Germany.
Berta Hummel Becomes Sister Maria Innocentia
After finishing art school, Berta Hummel became a Franciscan nun, taking the name Sister Maria Innocentia and continuing her artistic endeavors.
First Hummel Figurines Produced by Goebel
Franz Goebel of W. Goebel Porzellanfabrik acquired rights to Hummel's drawings and produced the first M.I. Hummel figurines, introducing them at the Leipzig Trade Fair.
WWII Production Restrictions
Production of Hummel figurines was restricted and eventually ceased during World War II due to Nazi control.
Sister Maria Innocentia Hummel Dies; Goebel Resumes Production
Sister Maria Innocentia Hummel died at age 37 from tuberculosis. Goebel resumed production of the figurines to honor her legacy.
Explosion in Popularity with American Soldiers
American soldiers stationed in West Germany after WWII began sending Hummel figurines home as gifts, leading to a significant surge in their popularity and collectibility.
Peak of Hummel Collecting Craze
The market for Hummel figurines reached its height, with a vibrant speculator market developing and prices for many pieces skyrocketing.
Goebel Ceases Hummel Figurine Production
Due to declining demand and financial difficulties, W. Goebel Porzellanfabrik ceased its production of M.I. Hummel figurines to focus on other product lines.
Manufaktur Rödental GmbH Takes Over Production
Manufaktur Rödental GmbH acquired the rights and production facilities, resuming the creation of Hummel figurines.
Manufaktur Rödental GmbH Declares Insolvency
Manufaktur Rödental GmbH, the then-producer of Hummel figurines, declared insolvency, leading to the closure of the factory.
Hummel Manufaktur GmbH Takes Over
A new international management team formed Hummel Manufaktur GmbH, taking over the M.I. Hummel figurine business and continuing production in Germany.
Hummel Manufaktur GmbH Declares Bankruptcy
Hummel Manufaktur GmbH also declared bankruptcy, marking another challenging period for the brand.
Bernd Foertsch Acquires Hummel Manufaktur
Businessman Bernd Foertsch announced his intention to acquire Hummel Manufaktur, planning a restructuring with a focus on direct sales and reduced production.
M.E. Zukerman & Co. Gains Controlling Stake
Hummel Manufaktur exchanged shares with the International M.E. Zukerman & Co., giving the latter a controlling stake in the company and its operations.
M.I. Hummel Club Newsletter Announces CY50 Anniversary
The M.I. Hummel Club distributed its latest newsletter, providing updates on the upcoming CY50 Anniversary and new releases, indicating ongoing collector engagement.
Hummel Manufaktur GmbH Announces 2026 Calendar and Annual Angel
Hummel Manufaktur GmbH announced the availability of the new Hummel Calendar 2026 and the 2026 Annual Angel, demonstrating continued new product releases.
Donald E. Stephens Museum of Hummels Relocated
The Donald E. Stephens Museum of Hummels, home to one of the world's largest collections, was relocated to take up part of the space in the newly opened Rosemont History Museum in 2026.
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🔍Deep Dive Analysis
M.I. Hummel figurines originated from the charming drawings of Sister Maria Innocentia Hummel, a German nun, in the 1930s. Franz Goebel, head of W. Goebel Porzellanfabrik, acquired the rights to transform her art into porcelain figurines, launching the first line in 1935 at the Leipzig Trade Fair. Their popularity exploded after World War II, as American soldiers stationed in West Germany purchased them as gifts and souvenirs, fostering a strong collector's market in the United States.
The collecting craze for Hummel figurines peaked from the 1970s through the 1990s, with prices for many pieces skyrocketing. However, this boom was unsustainable. Goebel's strategy of increasing production to meet demand led to an oversaturation of the market, causing supply to outstrip demand and deflating prices. As the primary collecting generation aged and mass-market enthusiasm waned, the broader market for common Hummel figurines experienced a significant decline in value.
This decline led to a series of financial troubles for the manufacturers. W. Goebel Porzellanfabrik ceased M.I. Hummel figurine production in 2008, focusing instead on other home accessories. Manufaktur Rödental GmbH took over production in early 2009 but declared insolvency in 2013. A new international management team, Hummel Manufaktur GmbH, acquired the business in 2014, but also faced bankruptcy in September 2017.
In December 2017, German businessman Bernd Foertsch acquired Hummel Manufaktur, initiating a restructuring process. He aimed to reduce annual production significantly, from 55,000 to 20,000 figurines, and focus on direct sales and community engagement to restore exclusivity and value. By April 2018, M.E. Zukerman & Co., which had long-standing ties to the brand through art licensing and North American distribution, gained a controlling stake in Hummel Manufaktur.
As of August 31, 2026, Hummel figurines continue to be produced in Rödental, Germany, by Hummel Manufaktur GmbH. The company, under the control of M.E. Zukerman & Co., maintains a strategy of limited, high-quality production, engaging actively with the M.I. Hummel Club, and releasing new pieces like the 2026 Annual Angel and Club figures. While most common post-1970 figurines now sell for modest prices ($5-$75), rare pieces, particularly those with early trademarks (TMK-1 or TMK-2) and in excellent condition, can still fetch hundreds to tens of thousands of dollars at auction.
What If...?
Explore alternate histories. What if M.I. Hummel Figurines made different choices?