That explains most of it !! Hummels were selling like hotcakes years ago but more recently have been going steadily downhill !! There is more of an interest in the UK than here,, or I should say there used to be more interest !! There are a few die hard collectors left. But they are difficult to sell if no one is actively collecting them irregardless of the book value !! As far as the online sites and their prices,, they can ask any amount they want,,,getting that price is another thing entirely !! Value does not equal todays market prices !! Hummels are one type of what I consider a fad item !! Like Beanie Babies !!