Goebel Hummel Annual Bell 1979 'Farewell'
Goebel / M.I. Hummel · Collectibles & Antiques > Figurines & Decorative Accessories
Era / Decade
1979
Material
Hand-painted Porcelain/Earthenware with a matte glaze. High-quality German craftsmanship typical of Goebel production.
Condition
Excellent. The porcelain shows no visible chips, cracks, or crazing. The hand-painted boy with accordion motif is crisp. The original white clapper string/cord appears intact, which is a major value indicator.
Demand Level
Low to Moderate. While Hummels have a dedicated niche, the market has seen a significant decline in recent years as younger generations are not collecting them at the same rate.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
Low: $8 | Mid: $15 | High: $25
Estimated Retail Value
$45.00 - $65.00 (original secondary market value during the Hummel collecting peak)
Comparable Sales
Recent eBay 'Sold' listings show this specific 1979 bell consistently selling for between $12 and $18 plus shipping without the box, and up to $30 with the original box and paperwork.
Description
Authentic 1979 Goebel Hummel Annual Bell titled 'Farewell'. This hand-painted porcelain bell features a charming relief of a young boy sitting in the grass, playing an accordion for a small bird. The bell is finished in a soft cream and tan gradient with a matte texture. Measures approximately 6 inches tall. This was the second edition in the Hummel annual bell series.
Key Features
Annual edition (1979), relief-style artwork, iconic Hummel aesthetic, intact clapper, highly recognizable brand for older collectors.
Authenticity Indicators
Distinctive M.I. Hummel signature style; Goebel trademark (likely TMK-5 or TMK-6) and '1979' date stamp should be present inside the bell rim. Confidence Level: High.
Flaws to Note
No visible physical floors; however, the lack of original box significantly impacts the 'High' end of the resale range. Minor dust in crevices.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay is the best platform for reach; Etsy is suitable if marketed as 'Vintage Decor'. Local Facebook Marketplace is an option but typically yields lower prices ($5-$10).
Selling Tips
Photograph the inside of the bell to show the Goebel trademark and the clapper. Use keywords like 'Vintage Goebel', 'Hummel Bell 1979', and 'Farewell Accordion Boy'. Shipping must be handled with extreme care—double box to ensure it doesn't shatter.