In the 1970s Hallmark first entered the Christmas Ornament business - six glass balls stood as the initial offering in what was to become a highly collectible business - Hallmark Keepsakes. What made the Hallmark ornaments stand apart from the competition is the same thing that makes them unique today - they are all dated, they are unique and they can only be purchased for a limited period of time. When they are sold, they are sold!
If your Hallmark Ornament collection is an investment, you are aware that many of these precious Keepsakes that originally sold for under $10 can now be resold for over $500!! Serious investors typically never display their investment pieces on a tree. The piece is more valuable in a pristine box in Mint condition.
So how much is it worth?
Your collectible is worth as much as someone else is willing to pay for it! There are many resources available to assit you with determining the value of your collection.
1- Value Guides: Printed annualy, there are several Hallmark ornament value guides availble to you as a resource.
2- Comparable Pricing: Investigate what retailers / dealers are selling your ornament for. Try to find at least 2 or 3 and average the price out.
3- Collectors forums and clubs: Join an ornament collector's club, either locally in person or join forums & website on the internet. Many collector's like yourself buy, sell & trade ornaments daily!
How do I keep it all organized?
The Low-tech way: Keep a list / notebook. Note the ornament name, year, Hallmark ID#, date aquired, price paid & value.
The Mid-tech way: Using a spreasheet or database to organize the same type of inventory list.
The Super-cool High-tech way: There are several Hallmark Computer database programs available that you can download. The come with pre-filled in information regarding each ornament incluing a photo! All you have to do is input the quantity & condition of each ornament you own. Some will even calculate the book value of your collection!
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