The magic of Christmas is in the air, and for many collectors, the holiday season is a time to revel in the nostalgia and charm of vintage Christmas figurines. These delightful collectibles bring joy and festivity to any home, and for those who collect them, the thrill of the hunt is all part of the fun. In this article, we'll delve into the world of rare and highly sought-after vintage Christmas figurines, highlighting five unique and valuable additions to any collection.
1. 1950s German Erzgebirge Wooden Nativity Scene
The Erzgebirge region in Germany has been renowned for its exquisite wooden crafts since the 17th century. In the 1950s, artisans from this region created intricately carved wooden nativity scenes, which have become highly prized by collectors today. These beautiful scenes typically feature hand-painted figures of Mary, Joseph, Jesus, and the Three Wise Men, all crafted from rich, dark wood. A rare and complete 1950s Erzgebirge wooden nativity scene can fetch upwards of $1,500 at auction.
What makes it rare?
The rarity of these nativity scenes lies in their limited production run and the exceptional craftsmanship that went into each piece. The Erzgebirge region was heavily affected by World War II, resulting in a shortage of skilled artisans and materials. As a result, only a small number of these wooden nativity scenes were produced during the 1950s, making them highly sought after by collectors.
2. 1920s Royal Copenhagen Christmas Plate
The Royal Copenhagen porcelain factory has been producing exquisite Christmas plates since 1895. The 1920s plates, in particular, are highly prized by collectors for their delicate designs and limited production runs. Each plate features a unique Christmas-themed design, often with intricate gold and silver accents. A rare 1920s Royal Copenhagen Christmas plate can sell for upwards of $2,000 at auction.
What makes it rare?
The rarity of these plates lies in their limited production run and the fact that many were produced as one-offs or in very small quantities. Royal Copenhagen plates from the 1920s are highly sought after by collectors due to their exceptional craftsmanship and historical significance.
3. 1950s NOMA Electric Candle Set
NOMA, a leading manufacturer of electric candles, produced a range of festive candle sets in the 1950s. These sets, featuring intricately designed candelabras and colorful glass holders, are highly prized by collectors today. A rare and complete 1950s NOMA electric candle set can fetch upwards of $1,000 at auction.
What makes it rare?
The rarity of these electric candle sets lies in their limited production run and the fact that many were produced with fragile glass holders, which are often missing or damaged. Complete sets with original packaging and instructions are highly sought after by collectors.
4. 1960s Radko Glass Christmas Ornament
Christopher Radko, a renowned glassblower, produced a range of exquisite glass Christmas ornaments in the 1960s. These delicate ornaments, featuring intricate designs and colorful glasswork, are highly prized by collectors today. A rare 1960s Radko glass Christmas ornament can sell for upwards of $500 at auction.
What makes it rare?
The rarity of these ornaments lies in their limited production run and the fact that many were produced with fragile glass, which is often damaged or missing. Radko ornaments with original packaging and certificates of authenticity are highly sought after by collectors.
5. 1930s German Hummel Christmas Figurine
The Hummel company, renowned for its charming porcelain figurines, produced a range of festive Christmas figurines in the 1930s. These delightful figurines, featuring intricately designed scenes of snowmen, reindeer, and Santas, are highly prized by collectors today. A rare 1930s German Hummel Christmas figurine can fetch upwards of $1,500 at auction.
What makes it rare?
The rarity of these figurines lies in their limited production run and the fact that many were produced with fragile porcelain, which is often damaged or missing. Hummel figurines with original packaging and certificates of authenticity are highly sought after by collectors.
We hope this article has sparked your interest in the world of vintage Christmas collectibles. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting out, there's something special about owning a rare and unique piece of Christmas history. So why not start your search today and see what hidden gems you can discover?
What is the value of a vintage Christmas figurine?
+The value of a vintage Christmas figurine can vary greatly depending on factors such as its rarity, condition, and provenance. Some rare and highly sought-after figurines can fetch upwards of $1,000 at auction, while others may be worth only a few dollars.
How do I identify a rare vintage Christmas figurine?
+To identify a rare vintage Christmas figurine, research the manufacturer, look for unique markings or signatures, and examine the condition and craftsmanship of the piece. You can also consult with experts, join collector communities, and attend auctions to learn more about rare and valuable figurines.
Where can I find rare vintage Christmas figurines?
+Rare vintage Christmas figurines can be found at antique shops, estate sales, online marketplaces, and specialized collectible stores. You can also attend auctions, join collector communities, and follow social media groups to stay informed about new discoveries and sales.