Identifying Dolls:
Over the last 20 years, several experts have written
books, magazine articles, and websites identifying
fashion dolls, particularly BarbieŽ Doll and friends,
and their accessories. Not only are these sources helpful
in identifying the name of the doll or accessory, but
they may also give you an idea of the value of your
item.
Click
here for a listing of books to help you identify
your dolls and accessories.
Pricing:
Pricing of the BarbieŽ Doll and accessories depends on
condition, visual appearance, and box condition (when
you have the box.)
.
Many collectors and dealers rely on online auctions
to buy and sell
fashion dolls. Many post pictures on their item pages.
Go to
Ebay for one of the largest selections of online
fashion
doll items for sale. Searching Ebay is a
good source for
identifying your items and seeing what
prices the items are
actually selling for.
Miller's Fashion
Dolls Magazine
ceased publishing in 2000, but
back issues of the magazine have a pricing guide
in them. Miller's is also an excellent resource for
learning about your items. Look for back issues at
doll and toy shows.
The Millers published an updated price guide in late
fall of 2000! Miller's Fashion Doll Price Guide includes BarbieŽ Doll, Gene , Tyler, and other fashion dolls. The newest edition is larger and more inclusive than any of the older editions.
The book is available through mail order at Sandi Holder's Doll Attic
and My Favourite Doll.
Check your local bookstore or other doll shops for a copy.
Barbie Bazaar Magazine issued a price guide in
1998. Each monthly issue includes prices for some dolls.
Click here to go to their website.
Denise Van Patten is the Guide to Doll Collecting at About.com. She is putting up an online price
guide to dolls of all makes, including Barbie Dolls. Click here to go directly to the price guide page. The
url for Doll Collecting at About.com is
http://collectdolls.about.com.
It is important to inventory your dolls and
keep track of the value, not only for selling purposes,
but also for insurance purposes. If there is a doll or toy & hobby show in your area, check and see if a doll appraiser will be offering free appraisals.
Otherwise, you might need to see an expert in BarbieŽ
Doll appraisal, or try to assign values yourself.
