NAC

The Barbie Craze

There probably isn't any one that doesn't know "Barbie." The most famous doll in the world was introduced by Mattel in 1959. An untouched, 1959 Barbie in her original, undamaged box sells for about $6,000.00. Those "figures" (both Barbie's and the dollars) have created a major interest in doll collecting.

Barbie was created by Ruth and Elliot Handler, founders of Mattel Toys. She was introduced at a in New York in 1959. She wore a black and white striped, one-piece bathing suit and retailed for $3.00.

Barbie was based upon a German doll named "Lili." Lili was modeled after a racy, German cartoon strip. Lili was a sleazy, bad girl that was sold in smoke shops and bars. She was marketed as a novelty item, not as a wholesome doll for girls.

Mattel bought the rights to Lili, changed her style and her "personality" and transformed lusty, little Lili into beautiful Barbie. Barbie met with some opposition. Many moms objected to Barbie's "grown-up figure," but girls loved her and the Barbie craze began. Barbie collectors claim: "In every second of every day, two Barbie dolls are sold somewhere in the world."

Like most collectibles, value is dependent upon supply, demand and condition. The most desirable and valuable Barbie is the original 1959 version. The $6,000.00 price tag mentioned above is for a perfect Barbie in a perfect package, commonly identified as "NRFB," (never removed from box). Since hardly anyone bought Barbie to collect, there are very few 1959 versions in NRFB condition. Prices drop dramatically for 1959 Barbies in less than mint condition. Most of the old dolls in our house look more like pot-scrubbing utensils than dolls -- missing arms, matted hair, and no clothes -- not much value here.

The 1960 version in NRFB condition sells in the $500.00-$800.00 range -- a far cry for the 1959 version in the same condition.

CAPTION: This Barbie (pictured) in her black and white striped-bathing suit began the Barbie craze in 1959.

Modern Collectible Dolls

There is a tremendous range of modern "collectible" dolls available today in price ranges from under $100 to over $1,000. A look through any doll magazine will give you an idea of the wide selection available. Many dolls are advertised as "limited editions," and "special editions." That title may not have any impact on present or future value.

Clara Koty, certified appraiser and collectible specialist from Freehold, NJ explains: "Our experience has proven to us that the "real" doll collector is more inclined to buy at the local collectible store, than at auctions or secondary markets where dolls are being sold by collectors."

So, even if the doll has appreciated, a collector cannot usually sell it at retail because of the way dolls are sold by the collectors. Ms. Koty adds: "We sold a large collection of 300 modern dolls (1980's -1990's) made by a well-known doll manufacturer. The owner researched the markets for selling her dolls for an entire year and concluded that flea markets were too time consuming and advertising in doll publications and newspapers produced only a few inquiries on specific dolls. As a last resort she contacted us at Koty Associates. We were surprised to find that her expectations were very realistic. She had approximately $24,000 "invested" in the collection and she received just over $6,000 -- a little above her expectations. By the way, all of the dolls were in their original boxes, with original tissue paper and tags."

Antique Dolls

Antique dolls fall into a different category. Many collectible antique dolls are from the Victorian period. The best ones have bisque (unglazed ceramic) heads. Dolls have markings, just like model numbers on machinery. These marks help identify how old they are and who made them. Leon Castner, Senior Partner of National Appraisal Consultants, explains that doll head manufacturers sold heads to different doll makers. Doll makers added the body, hair and clothes. "The same head may be found on different bodies. Doll head manufacturers marked the heads and doll makers added a mark of their own. Doll marks are usually found on the back of the head, under the wig."

According to Dr. Castner: "The most desirable antique dolls are French-made dolls. "Bru" and "Jumeau" are two of the best names. Antique German dolls are quite collectible as well. Some of these early dolls in excellent condition are valued at many thousands of dollars."

Knowing what makes a doll valuable, both new and old, can help you spot a bargain or discover a real treasure. But remember -- collect what you like and what you can afford and you'll never be disappointed -- as long as you don't expect it become a great investment.

CAPTION: This 23" 1898-1910, #101 Schuetzmeister & Quendt German Bisque head and composition body doll has an antique dress, replaced wig, no hat, and set eyes. It is a very fine example. Photograph provided with the compliments of Dori Lin Dolls, www.dorilin-dolls.com

Brian Kathenes, is a Certified Appraiser and Managing Partner of National Appraisal Consultants in Hope, NJ.