Understanding Department 56 Retired Pieces Value
Department 56 began as a giftware department within the Bachman’s floral company in 1976, introducing the first ceramic lighted buildings known as “Original Snow Village.” Since then, the company has expanded to create multiple village series including Dickens’ Village, North Pole Series, Christmas in the City, New England Village, and more. Each year, Department 56 retires certain pieces to make room for new designs, creating opportunities for collectors to invest in potentially valuable retired items.
Department 56 Collecting By The Numbers
What Makes Retired Department 56 Pieces Valuable?
Not all retired Department 56 pieces appreciate significantly in value. Several key factors determine which pieces become truly valuable on the secondary market:
- Rarity - Limited production runs or pieces that were only available for a short time
- Condition - Mint condition with original packaging commands premium prices
- Popularity - Pieces from beloved series or with unique designs
- Age - Older retired pieces, especially from early production years
- Completeness - Having all original accessories, light cords, and packaging
Department 56 maintains an official retirement website that serves as a historical reference for village pieces and Snowbabies, helping collectors verify authenticity and original pricing.
Most Valuable Department 56 Village Series
Department 56 Series Timeline
- 1976
Original Snow Village
The first ceramic lighted village introduced by Department 56, with early pieces now considered highly collectible. - 1984
Dickens' Village
Based on Charles Dickens' Victorian England, this series features some of the most sought-after retired pieces. - 1990
North Pole Series
Whimsical buildings depicting Santa's workshop and surrounding village, with select retired pieces becoming valuable. - 1986
New England Village
Portraying American colonial architecture, with early retired pieces commanding premium prices. - 1987
Christmas in the City
Depicting urban holiday scenes, this series has select valuable retired pieces.
Dickens’ Village
The Dickens’ Village series features some of the most valuable retired Department 56 pieces. Based on the works of Charles Dickens and Victorian England, this series began in 1984 and has maintained strong collector interest.
Notable valuable retired pieces include:
- The Old Curiosity Shop (first editions)
- Scrooge & Marley Counting House (early releases)
- Nicholas Nickleby Cottage (limited editions)
Dickens’ Village pieces have a distinctive literary connection and detailed craftsmanship that make them particularly appealing to collectors. For rare pieces in mint condition with original packaging, values can range from $100 to over $500, with some exceptionally rare pieces fetching even higher prices.
Original Snow Village
As the original Department 56 series launched in 1976, early Snow Village pieces hold significant historical value. These were the first lighted ceramic buildings produced by the company, setting the standard for future village collections.
Particularly valuable retired Snow Village pieces include:
- Village Church (first edition)
- The Greenhouse (early production)
- Village Post Office (limited releases)
Early Snow Village pieces from the 1970s and early 1980s can command prices ranging from $150 to $800 for mint condition pieces with original packaging. The nostalgic appeal and historical significance of these pieces drive their value in the collector’s market.
Identifying Valuable Retired Pieces
Authenticity Marks and Dating
Department 56 pieces have distinctive markings that help authenticate them and determine their production year:
- Base Markings - Authentic Department 56 pieces have the company name, village series, and piece name molded or stamped on the underside.
- Production Codes - Many pieces include a year or production code that helps identify when the piece was manufactured.
- Retired Status - The official Department 56 Retirements website confirms whether a piece is officially retired.
- Original Box - Original packaging often includes information about production dates and edition status.
Limited Edition and Special Release Indicators
Limited editions and special releases generally command higher prices:
- Numbered Pieces - Some limited editions have individual numbering (e.g., “1 of 500”)
- Commemorative Pieces - Special anniversary or commemorative pieces often become valuable
- Event Exclusives - Pieces sold only at specific events or to club members
- Dealer Exclusives - Pieces only available through certain retailers
Department 56 Piece Value Assessment Checklist
Check applicable items to help determine potential value
- Original box and packaging present
- Certificate of authenticity included
- No chips, cracks, or paint damage
- Original light cord included
- All accessories present
- Limited edition or numbered piece
- Early production year (pre-1990)
- From a particularly popular series
- Retired 10+ years ago
Current Market Values for Retired Department 56 Pieces
The value of retired Department 56 pieces can vary widely based on condition, rarity, and demand. Here’s a breakdown of current market values for different series and categories:
Department 56 Retired Pieces Value Guide
Current market values for retired pieces in mint condition with original packaging
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Where to Buy and Sell Retired Department 56 Pieces
Online Marketplaces
- eBay - The largest marketplace for Department 56 collectibles with extensive listings of rare Dickens Village pieces and other retired items
- Etsy - Offers many vintage Department 56 pieces, often from smaller collectors
- Amazon - Has some retired Department 56 pieces, though typically at higher price points
- Facebook Marketplace - Local deals can sometimes yield bargains
- Mercari - Growing marketplace for collectibles
Specialty Retailers
- The Jolly Christmas Shop - Specializes in retired Department 56 pieces
- St. Nick’s Christmas Store - Features rare and retired pre-loved Department 56 items
- Hooked on Villages - Dedicated to Department 56 village collectibles
- Gift Shops - Local gift shops sometimes carry retired pieces
Collector Shows & Events
- Department 56 Collectors Conventions - Excellent for finding rare pieces and networking with other collectors
- Holiday Collectible Shows - Often feature vendors specializing in retired village pieces
- Antique Shows - Occasionally feature Department 56 collectibles
For selling retired pieces, established online marketplaces typically offer the widest audience, while specialty retailers might provide better valuations for rare or particularly desirable items. When purchasing, comparing prices across multiple platforms is recommended to ensure fair market value.
Investment Potential & Collecting Strategy
Identifying Pieces with Growth Potential
Not all retired Department 56 pieces appreciate equally in value. Collectors should focus on these characteristics when seeking pieces with strong investment potential:
- Limited Production Runs - Pieces produced in smaller quantities typically appreciate more
- Series Popularity - Dickens’ Village and early Snow Village generally hold value better
- Architectural Significance - Landmark buildings or distinctive architectural styles
- Cultural References - Pieces tied to popular literature, films, or historical events
- Upcoming Retirements - Monitoring Department 56’s annual retirement lists to purchase soon-to-be-retired pieces
Market Trends Affecting Value
Several trends influence the current and future values of Department 56 retired pieces:
- Aging Collector Base - As original collectors downsize, more pieces enter the market
- Generational Interest - Younger collectors may focus on different series or pieces
- Condition Expectations - Increasing emphasis on mint condition with original packaging
- Display Technology - LED lighting upgrades adding value to older pieces
- Collecting Philosophy Shifts - Movement from complete village collecting to curated displays
Storage and Preservation Tips
Proper storage significantly impacts the long-term value of Department 56 pieces:
- Original Packaging - Store in original boxes with styrofoam inserts
- Climate Control - Maintain consistent temperature and humidity levels
- Dust Protection - Use display cases or cabinets during off-seasons
- Handling Practices - Wear cotton gloves when handling to prevent oils and damage
- Documentation - Keep certificates of authenticity and purchase receipts
- Careful Cleaning - Use soft brushes and avoid liquid cleaners on painted surfaces
Department 56 Collector Resources
Department 56 Official Retirement Website
The official historical reference for retirement dates and original pricing of Department 56 Village and Snowbabies pieces.
Department 56 2023 Retirement List
Current year's retirement announcements to help collectors identify pieces that will soon become retired.
eBay Dept 56 Rare Collectibles
Marketplace featuring rare and valuable Department 56 pieces with current market pricing.
St. Nick's Christmas Store Retired Collection
Specialty retailer offering pre-loved rare and retired Department 56 pieces with expert descriptions.
The Jolly Christmas Shop Retired Section
Curated selection of retired Department 56 pieces with detailed product information and current pricing.
Department 56 Wikipedia
Background information on Department 56 history, ownership, and collectible series development.
Hooked on Villages Collector Site
Dedicated resource for Department 56 village collectors with guides, forums, and marketplace.
Authentication and Condition Grading
Authentication Methods
Genuine Department 56 pieces can be authenticated through several identifying characteristics:
- Base Markings - Authentic pieces have “Department 56” and the village name molded into the base
- Craftsmanship Quality - Hand-painted details with consistent quality and precise application
- Material Composition - Most buildings are made of porcelain or ceramic with specific weight and texture
- Light Fixture Configuration - Authentic pieces have standardized light socket patterns
- Packaging Verification - Original boxes have consistent printing quality and materials
Department 56 pieces are hand-painted according to specific artistic direction, giving them a distinctive quality that’s difficult to counterfeit. The company fires buildings a second time after painting, providing greater durability to the color finish.
Condition Grading Scale
When valuing retired Department 56 pieces, condition is typically graded on this scale:
- Mint (M) - Perfect condition with original packaging and all accessories
- Near Mint (NM) - Virtually perfect with perhaps minor packaging wear
- Excellent (E) - Very slight wear but no structural damage
- Very Good (VG) - Minor flaws or paint wear that doesn’t impact display quality
- Good (G) - Some noticeable damage or repairs
- Fair (F) - Significant damage, missing parts, or major repairs
- Poor (P) - Extensive damage that impacts display quality
The condition directly impacts value, with mint condition pieces in original packaging commanding premiums of 50-100% over the same piece in good condition without packaging.
Common Questions About Department 56 Retired Pieces Value
Are Department 56 Christmas village buildings worth anything?
Yes, Department 56 Christmas village buildings can be quite valuable, especially retired pieces in mint condition with original packaging. While the average village building sells for under $100 on the secondary market, rare pieces, limited editions, and early productions from popular series like Dickens' Village and Original Snow Village can command several hundred dollars. Some exceptionally rare pieces have sold for over $1,000. The value depends heavily on condition, rarity, age, and completeness of the piece.
Are Department 56 houses hand-painted?
Yes, Department 56 houses and buildings are hand-painted. According to the official Department 56 website, each building and accessory is painted by hand according to specific artistic direction. After painting, the pieces undergo a second firing process to enhance the durability of the color finish. This hand-crafted quality contributes to their collectibility and value, as each piece has subtle uniqueness while maintaining consistent overall design.
What are the different Department 56 villages?
Department 56 has created numerous themed village collections over the years. The major village series include:
- Original Snow Village (started 1976)
- Dickens’ Village (started 1984)
- North Pole Series (started 1990)
- Christmas in the City (started 1987)
- New England Village (started 1986)
- Alpine Village (started 1986)
- Dickens’ A Christmas Carol (specialty series)
- Halloween Village (seasonal collection)
- Harvest Village (seasonal collection)
- Christmas Canyon Village (newer series)
Each village has its own architectural style, theme, and collector following, with certain series like Dickens’ Village and Original Snow Village generally commanding higher values for retired pieces.
Does Enesco own Department 56?
Yes, Department 56 is currently owned by Enesco, LLC. According to Wikipedia, Department 56 began as a department within Bachman's floral company in 1976, becoming independent in 1992. The company was later acquired by Enesco in 2007. Despite the ownership change, Department 56 continues to operate from its base in Eden Prairie, Minnesota, and maintains its reputation for high-quality collectibles, ornaments, and giftware. Enesco's ownership hasn't significantly impacted the collectibility or value of Department 56 pieces, especially retired ones that predate the acquisition.
What is the most valuable Department 56 piece?
The most valuable Department 56 pieces typically come from the earliest production years (1976-1985) of the Original Snow Village and early Dickens' Village series. While values fluctuate based on market demand, some of the most valuable pieces include first-edition "Village Church" from the Original Snow Village, early limited editions of "The Old Curiosity Shop" from Dickens' Village, and certain numbered commemorative pieces. These can command $500-$1,000+ in mint condition with original packaging. However, the highest values occur when extremely rare pieces are sold to dedicated collectors, with some exceptional pieces reportedly selling for over $2,000.
How can I find the retirement date for my Department 56 piece?
The best resource for finding retirement dates is the official Department 56 Retirements website (retiredproducts.department56.com). This site provides a historical reference for Village and Snowbabies pieces, including original pricing and retirement dates. You can search by village series or piece name. Additionally, the base of your piece may have a production code that can help identify when it was manufactured, which can be cross-referenced with known retirement dates. Department 56 also publishes annual retirement lists, which collectors can check to verify when specific pieces were officially retired from production.
Do all retired Department 56 pieces increase in value?
No, not all retired Department 56 pieces increase in value. While retirement is a prerequisite for potential appreciation, several other factors determine whether a piece will gain value over time. These include rarity, condition, popularity of the series, architectural significance, and collector demand. Pieces from limited production runs, early series years, or with unique characteristics tend to appreciate more. Common pieces from less popular series may not increase significantly in value even after retirement. Additionally, condition plays a crucial role - pieces without original packaging or with damage typically don't appreciate well regardless of their retirement status.
What's the best way to sell valuable Department 56 retired pieces?
The best selling method depends on the value of your pieces and your priorities:
- For maximum exposure: eBay reaches the largest audience of Department 56 collectors
- For best pricing on rare pieces: Specialty retailers like St. Nick’s Christmas Store or collector shows
- For quick local sales: Facebook Marketplace or local antique shops
- For bulk collections: Auction houses or estate sale specialists
Before selling, research current market values by checking recent completed sales of similar pieces. Providing detailed photographs, condition descriptions, and documentation of authenticity will help maximize your selling price. For particularly valuable pieces, consider having them professionally appraised first to ensure you’re pricing them appropriately.
Final Thoughts on Department 56 Retired Pieces Value
Department 56 retired pieces represent a fascinating intersection of holiday tradition, craftsmanship, and collectible investment. While not every retired piece will significantly appreciate in value, certain pieces—particularly those from early production years of popular series like Dickens’ Village and Original Snow Village—have shown impressive long-term value growth.
For collectors, understanding the factors that contribute to higher valuations is essential. Condition, rarity, historical significance, and completeness with original packaging all play crucial roles in determining a piece’s market value. The official Department 56 retirement lists and website provide valuable resources for authentication and historical context.
Whether you’re collecting for sentimental reasons or investment potential, Department 56 retired pieces offer both the joy of holiday tradition and the possibility of appreciating value. By focusing on quality pieces with established provenance, and properly preserving their condition, collectors can build collections that bring both personal enjoyment and potential financial returns.
As with any collectible investment, patience and knowledge are key. Values tend to fluctuate with market trends and collector interests, but the enduring appeal of these meticulously crafted miniature buildings suggests that select Department 56 retired pieces will continue to be sought after by collectors for generations to come.
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| Category | Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Early Dickens' Village (1984-1990) | $150-$600 | First releases command highest prices |
| Original Snow Village (1976-1985) | $200-$800 | Early pieces have highest collector value |
| North Pole Series (1990-2000) | $100-$400 | Special editions most valuable |
| New England Village (1986-1995) | $125-$500 | Limited production pieces worth most |
| Christmas in the City (1987-2000) | $100-$350 | Select landmark buildings most desirable |
| Limited Edition Commemoratives | $300-$1,000+ | Numbered pieces with certificates |
| Accessories & Figurine Sets | $50-$250 | Complete sets in original packaging |