What is the story behind Precious Moments figurines?

In the early 1970s, Sam and a friend, Bill Biel, started a small company to produce his Precious Moments art on a line of cards and posters, calling their company Jonathan & David. By the end of 1978, the first twenty-one original Precious Moments figurines were introduced to the market.

What is the most valuable Precious Moments figurine?

While the value of each sculpture varies greatly, the most prized one has been valued at upward of $2,000. It’s called “God Loveth a Cheerful Giver,” and it depicts a girl and a wagon full of free puppies. A more common price for the figurine, based on recent eBay sales, is more like $200.

Are Precious Moments figurines worth anything?

According to Today, the Precious Moments figurines from the “Original 21” collection that was released in 1979 are considered vintage collectibles and could be worth up to $750. The publication reports that the most prized “Original 21” piece is called “God Loveth a Cheerful Giver,” according to an expert.

When did Precious Moments figurines begin?

1978
In 1978, the Original 21 Precious Moments figurines were released to worldwide acclaim and a new collecting and gift-giving tradition was born. Around the world, Precious Moments became known for its beautiful, hand-painted porcelain bisque figurines featuring children with captivating teardrop-shaped eyes.

Where Are Precious Moments figurines manufactured?

Carthage, Missouri
Precious Moments Park and Chapel, Carthage, Missouri.

Where is the precious moments factory?

The Precious Moments Park is located right in the middle of the U.S. in Carthage, Missouri. Just a short hop off of I-44 which connects St. Louis, Missouri to Oklahoma City, Oklahoma or Hwy 71 which connects Kansas City, Missouri, with Ft. Smith, Arkansas.

Where is the Precious Moments factory?

Are Precious Moments still being produced?

Each year new Precious Moments figurines are produced and some are limited in production. Once those figurines are sold, the mold is retired and indefinitely withdrawn from production.

When were the first Precious Moments figurines made?

By the fall of 1978, the first twenty-one original Precious Moments figurines were introduced to the market at a trade show in Chicago. The porcelain figurines were sold under the Jonathan & David name and the response was incredible.

What is the Precious Moments Collectors’ Club?

The Precious Moments Collectors’ Club was born in 1981 and grew to over 400,000 Members worldwide. By sharing common values of loving, caring, and sharing, collectors formed a close knit, yet far-reaching global community.

When did the original 21 precious moments come out?

In 1978, the Original 21 Precious Moments figurines were released to worldwide acclaim and a new collecting and gift-giving tradition was born. Around the world, Precious Moments became known for its beautiful, hand-painted porcelain bisque figurines featuring children with captivating teardrop-shaped eyes.

What are ‘precious moments’ products?

Products derived from these illustrations (by license) are called ‘Precious Moments’. Christian themes appear throughout his work. The flagship product of the brand is the ‘Precious Moments Porcelain Bisque Figurines’.