Royal Doulton figurines: which are valuable

Royal Doulton figures are among the most common collectables in British homes. Most are worth modest sums; a few are worth a great deal.

The HN number

Since 1913 Royal Doulton figures have been numbered with «HN» followed by a number. It identifies the model and colourway, and roughly when it was introduced: low numbers are early designs.

The backstamp

The base usually shows the lion-and-crown mark, the figure's name, the HN number and often a copyright date. The copyright date is when the design was registered, not necessarily when your piece was made.

What tends to be valuable

Early figures with low HN numbers, rare colourways, short-lived models, prototypes and limited editions. Some character jugs and Lambeth stoneware pieces are also collectable.

What lowers the value

Chips on fingers and hats, cracks, restoration, and the very common «ladies» from the 1980s–2000s, which were made in large numbers.

Check yours

Photograph the figure and the base with the HN number visible. The AI will identify the model and give a realistic range.