Your 'Precious Moments' figurines could be worth something

LOS ANGELES - Remember when everyone said Beanie Babies might be worth some serious cash one day? Well, that may have not fully panned out -- but Precious Moments figurines could sell for more money than you think.

The endearing, teardrop-eyed figurines were first introduced to the market in the late 1970s by artist Sam Butcher and became a gift industry phenomenon.

The "Original 21" collection, first introduced in 1978, now apparently has a booming market online, and one of the porcelain collectibles in particular seems to be drawing some fairly high bids.

On eBay, the price tag for "God Loveth a Cheerful Giver" was recently listed for prices ranging from $125 to $325. The rare collectible, portraying a little girl giving away free puppies, originally sold for $15, according to Today.

A spokesperson for Woolvey Fine Antiques & Collectibles, which specializes in retired and limited-edition collectibles, told Today.com that the "God Loveth a Cheerful Giver" figurine has had valuations "in excess of $2,000" in some cases.

Not to mention, a seller with all 21 of the "Original 21" recently listed the collector's items for $950 on eBay.

According to Woolvey's identification and value guide on Precious Moments, the condition of the hand-painted, porcelain bisque figurine will drastically affect the value.

Other factors include the age of the item, its "retired" or "suspended" production status, and if the figurine is still in its original packaging.

"Although not a big factor in value, expect to lose between 5% and 20% of the value of a Precious Moments figurine if you are missing the original box," the website says. "Note that box condition is less important than figurine condition."

Lastly, if you're digging through the attic and find a Precious Moment with a signature, check the name.

"The most popular signature to have or want on your Precious Moments figurine is that of creator and artist, Sam Butcher. His signature will add the most value."