These days, Hallmark ornaments are not just used for holiday decorations, but they have become prized possessions for collectors. Their limited availability, unique designs, and intricate detailing make them a valuable and sought-after commodity. These ornaments hold not only sentimental value but also a substantial financial value, making them a good investment.
The list we’ve compiled is based on real-world trends, data from auctions and sales, expert interviews, and surveys. This will give you a comprehensive view of the most coveted Hallmark ornaments that collectors are scrambling for. Each item is explained in detail, highlighting why it’s desirable, its current relevance and value, and a reliable source link for further information.
1973 Frosty Friends
The 1980 Frosty Friends is the first ornament in the longest-running Hallmark series. It stands out because of its unique Eskimo and seal design, which was a departure from the traditional Christmas themes. Many collectors overlooked it when it was first released, but now it’s one of the most sought-after pieces due to its rarity and the fact that it marks the beginning of the series. Today, this ornament is in high demand. The value of the 1980 Frosty Friends has skyrocketed due to its scarcity and collectors’ desire to complete their Frosty Friends series. Collectors and investors are willing to pay high prices for this piece, making it a wise investment for the future. More information about its value can be found here.
1981 Rocking Horse
The 1981 Rocking Horse is another ornament that has caught the eyes of collectors. It’s the first in the Rocking Horse series, and its classic, timeless design is a big part of its appeal. While initially, it may not have been a standout piece, it is now highly coveted by collectors who aim to complete their Rocking Horse series. The 1981 Rocking Horse holds significant value today. The ornament’s increasing rarity and the popularity of the Rocking Horse series have caused its value to rise. Collectors should consider investing in this ornament as there is a good chance its value will continue to increase. More details about its current market value can be found here.
1991 Starship Enterprise
The 1991 Starship Enterprise ornament was released to commemorate the 25th anniversary of Star Trek. The ornament features the iconic spaceship from the popular science fiction series. The unique design and connection to Star Trek make it a must-have for both ornament collectors and Star Trek fans. The demand for the 1991 Starship Enterprise ornament has increased in recent years. The ongoing popularity of Star Trek and the desire of collectors to own this unique piece have driven up its value. It’s an ornament that not only holds nostalgic value but also great financial value. More about its selling price can be found here.
1996 Barbie Debut
The 1996 Barbie Debut ornament features the 1959 original Barbie, making it a coveted piece for Barbie fans and ornament collectors alike. This ornament is appreciated for its detailed representation of the iconic doll, taking collectors back to Barbie’s origins. Today, the value of the 1996 Barbie Debut ornament has increased significantly. The surge in vintage Barbie collecting, coupled with the ornament’s detail and connection to Barbie’s history, makes it a valuable piece. Collectors can check its current market price here.
2004 Lionel Blue Comet
The 2004 Lionel Blue Comet ornament is a replica of the famous Blue Comet train. Train enthusiasts and ornament collectors find it attractive because of its detailed design and the nostalgic feel it brings. This ornament is often overlooked due to its non-traditional Christmas theme, but the train’s historic significance makes it a collectible. Its value today is driven by its rarity, the popularity of train-themed ornaments, and the high regard for the Lionel train series. This makes it an ornament worth investing in.
2010 Beauty of Birds Scarlet Tanager
The 2010 Beauty of Birds Scarlet Tanager is a part of Hallmark’s popular bird series. Bird lovers and ornament collectors appreciate this piece for its vibrant colors and detailed representation of the songbird. It’s often bought for its aesthetic appeal and the joy it brings to bird enthusiasts. The value of this ornament in today’s market is tied to the popularity of the Beauty of Birds series and its limited availability. As the series continues, the demand for earlier pieces like the Scarlet Tanager grows, increasing its value. More details about its current price can be found here.
2012 Twelve Days of Christmas Partridge
The 2012 Twelve Days of Christmas Partridge ornament is the first in Hallmark’s Twelve Days of Christmas series. Collectors appreciate it for its classic Christmas theme and the fact that it started a beloved series. Initially, it might have been just another Christmas ornament, but today it holds a special place in many collections. Today, the Partridge ornament is in high demand. The completion of the Twelve Days of Christmas series in 2023 has increased the value of the first ornament in the series. Collectors looking to complete their series are willing to pay top dollar for this piece. Its current market value can be found here.
2014 Santa’s Sweet Ride
The 2014 Santa’s Sweet Ride features Santa in a cupcake car, marking the final ornament in the Santa’s Sweet Ride series. The whimsical design makes it a hit among collectors who have a taste for fun and quirky ornaments. While it may not be a traditional Christmas ornament, its charm is undeniable. The completion of the Santa’s Sweet Ride series in 2014 has amplified the value of this ornament. Collectors wanting to finish their series are actively seeking this piece, driving up its market price.
2017 KOC Event Repaint Blue Charming Bird
The 2017 KOC Event Repaint Blue Charming Bird is a limited-edition ornament that was only available at the 2017 Keepsake Ornament Club event. Its exclusive design and limited availability make it a treasure for collectors. Despite being a recent release, it’s a piece that many collectors aim to add to their collection. Its value today is determined by its limited release and the popularity of bird-themed ornaments. As more collectors become aware of this exclusive piece, its value is likely to increase. Collectors can find more about its selling price here.
2020 Star Wars The Mandalorian
The 2020 Star Wars The Mandalorian ornament is a must-have for Star Wars fans. The ornament features the popular character from the Disney+ series, making it an instant hit. Collectors and Star Wars fans alike are eager to get their hands on this ornament for its detailed design and connection to the beloved franchise. The recent release of The Mandalorian series and its huge success have significantly increased the value of this ornament. There is a surge in demand for Mandalorian merchandise, and this ornament is no exception.