7 Figurine Collecting Books That Define the Hobby

Heidi Ann Von Recklinghausen draws on decades of personal and family experience with M.I. Hummel figurines to create a detailed and richly illustrated price guide. You learn to identify authentic pieces through clear Hum number listings and decipher nearly 80 years of trademark history, supported by over 2000 full-color images and exclusive historic drawings by Maria Innocentia Hummel. This book suits collectors who want to understand both the artistic heritage and market value of their Hummel figurines and plates, offering precise pricing updates including the latest 2000 Series. If you treasure these figurines or aim to build a curated collection, this guide provides the clarity and depth you need.

Dee Harris, a respected authority on ceramic figurines, teamed up with Jim and Kaye Whitaker to produce this carefully researched guide on Josef Originals, a beloved series of ceramic figurines from mid-20th-century California. The book offers a richly illustrated journey through hundreds of poses and costumes crafted by Mauriel Josef George, helping you accurately date and identify these collectibles. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting out, the detailed color images and historical context provide essential tools to deepen your appreciation and knowledge of these charming works. This book suits anyone interested in ceramic art history or wanting to enhance their figurine collection with confidence.

This tailored book explores the art and science of figurine collecting with a focus that matches your interests and background. It examines detailed approaches to identifying, evaluating, and organizing figurines, providing a pathway that respects your specific goals and collecting preferences. The content reveals how to navigate the complexities of authenticity, condition assessment, and market trends with confidence and precision. By synthesizing collective knowledge and expert practices, this personalized guide offers a clear, engaging journey through the nuances of figurine collecting. It encourages deeper appreciation and mastery by focusing on what truly matters to you.

This exclusive journal, produced by the Goebel Collectors' Club, offers a focused glimpse into the world of Goebel art and Hummel figurines from 1977 to 1987. Rather than a typical collector’s guide, it serves as a curated archive, capturing trends, artist insights, and detailed discussions on porcelain and ceramic art pieces that shaped collecting culture during that decade. You’ll find value in its period-specific perspectives, particularly if you want to understand the historical context and evolution of Goebel collectibles. While the author remains anonymous, the publication's insider nature makes it especially useful for dedicated collectors seeking depth beyond standard reference books.

When Fig Heel realized the sheer volume of wrestling figures flooding the market, he set out to create a resource that captures every detail collectors crave. This encyclopedia catalogs thousands of modern wrestling figures from 2010 onward, featuring over 6,000 full-color photos and detailed info like event-specific attire for WWE Elites. You'll learn how to identify, track, and appreciate the nuances of figures across major promotions and independent companies alike. Whether you're sorting your collection or hunting rare pieces, this book equips you with precise knowledge to navigate the current landscape of wrestling collectibles.

The Complete Book of Florence Ceramics draws on Barbara S. Kline and her co-authors' deep expertise in antiques and ceramics to offer a detailed guide to the Pasadena-based Florence Ceramics Company. You’ll explore the origins of the company’s historical and literary figurines, alongside insights into founder Florence Ward’s meticulous research and quality control. The book breaks down the production processes and patent innovations, making it a solid reference for identifying pieces by size, color, and value. If you’re serious about ceramic figurines, this book enriches your understanding of one of the most distinctive mid-20th-century American manufacturers.

This personalized book explores actionable steps to rapidly enhance your figurine collection, focusing on your unique interests and background. By tailoring content specifically to your goals, it reveals effective techniques to identify valuable pieces, improve display methods, and refine collection management. The book examines ways to deepen your understanding of collectible categories while offering practical ideas to elevate your collection's quality in a short time frame. Through a tailored approach, you gain a focused learning experience that matches your current skill level and desired outcomes, making the journey both engaging and efficient.

Unlike most figurine collecting guides that skim the surface, Joe Devine's book digs into the rich history and intricacies of Royal Copley, Royal Windsor, and Spaulding wares with a collector’s precision. Drawing from his deep expertise and previous out-of-print works, Devine offers detailed photographs and identification tips that help you distinguish genuine pieces and understand the evolution of the Spaulding China Company. You'll find chapters dedicated to various types of items—planters, vases, wall pockets—each with value assessments from 2006. This book suits anyone serious about American pottery collecting, especially those who want to grasp the nuances of these iconic brands rather than just admire them.

Donald-Brian Johnson, an independent researcher with a deep background in mid-20th century collectibles, brings to life the story of Ceramic Arts Studio and its standout designer Betty Harrington. This book goes beyond surface appreciation, offering you a detailed inventory of every figurine produced, complemented by over 1,200 color photographs that capture the charm and intricate craftsmanship of each piece. You'll gain insight into the studio's early days, the artistic evolution of Harrington, and the broader context of ceramic art in the 1940s and '50s, including interviews with key figures like Reuben Sand and Lawrence Rabbitt. If you collect or study ceramic figurines, this volume provides the essential historical and valuation framework to deepen your understanding and appreciation.