Precious Moments Value & Price Guide

Precious Moments collectibles are beloved for their distinctive teardrop-eyed characters and sentimental themes that celebrate life's milestones. Originally inspired by the artwork of Samuel J. Butcher, these porcelain bisque figurines and accessories have become staples of gift-giving and home decor since the late 1970s.

Price Range: $28 - $35 based on recent sales

History of Precious Moments

The Precious Moments story began in 1974 when artist Samuel J. Butcher created the first drawings of the soulful, teardrop-eyed children to share his faith with family and friends. The brand transitioned from greeting cards to three-dimensional collectibles in 1978 when Butcher partnered with Enesco to produce the 'Original 21' figurines, which sparked a global collecting phenomenon. Over the decades, the line expanded beyond porcelain figurines to include dolls, ornaments, and kitchenware, eventually leading to the establishment of the Precious Moments Chapel in Carthage, Missouri. While the brand has evolved through various licensing changes, it remains a cornerstone of the giftware industry, maintaining a dedicated following of collectors who value the emotional resonance and nostalgic charm of each piece.

Value Factors for Precious Moments

The typical price range for Precious Moments is $28 - $35 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The presence of early production marks, specifically those from the late 1970s and early 1980s like the 'Jonathan & David' era.
• Retirement status, as figurines that have been officially suspended or retired from production often command higher prices on the secondary market.
• The condition of the matte bisque finish, which is prone to staining and dust accumulation if not stored in a climate-controlled environment.
• Limited edition status or membership-only exclusives that were only available to Precious Moments Collectors' Club members.

Tips for Buying Precious Moments

• Check the bottom of the figurine for the production mark, such as the triangle or cedar tree, to determine the specific year of manufacture.
• Inspect the delicate porcelain bisque for hairline fractures or chips, particularly on protruding elements like fingers, wings, or flower petals.
• Prioritize items that include the original branded box and the 'Symbol of Membership' documentation to ensure maximum resale potential.
• Be wary of 'Original 21' reproductions; authentic early pieces will have specific Enesco backstamps and matte finishes characteristic of the late 1970s.

Items in This Collection

• Precious Moments Christmas Bell
• Precious Moments Debbie Doll
• Precious Moments Coffee Mug
• Precious Moments Christmas Cross Stitch
• Enesco Precious Moments Ornaments
• Precious Moments A Friend In Need
• Enesco Precious Moments Figurine
• Precious Moments Angel Figurines
• Precious Moments Anniversary Clock
• Precious Moments Birthday Train Clown
• A Precious Moments Christmas Book
• Precious Moments 50th Anniversary Plate
• Precious Moments Angel Doll