This nativity group is quite old. I believe these are at least 50 years old and are hand painted figurines. There is approximately 20 pieces ranging from the baby Jesus to farm animals. Not sure where it is originally from but we lived on a Dutch island in the caribbean.
Re: Where do I begin to research a nativity scene. with only ...
If there is no maker's mark determining a maker from just a number is difficult. Most we see today were made by Goebel ( who makes Hummels). I'd suggest posting some images up on the free appraisal section, maybe someone can identify what you have .