How to Determine the Value of Your Barbie Doll

Comparison is the key in determining your Barbie's value. You need to use books, shows and auctions to get an idea of the value.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Barbie Accessories
• Barbie Dolls
• Barbie Bazaar Subscriptions

1. Examine your doll carefully and note any damage, wear and tear or defects. Damage will decrease the value.

2. Know that a doll that has never been removed from the box (NRFB) is worth much more than a doll that has.

3. Realize that a doll that has been altered or restored, although perhaps prettier, is worth less to collectors.

4. Be aware that the date on your doll's abdomen is not the date it was made. This date refers to the date the mold was created.

5. Understand that, generally, the fewer dolls of a specific type that were made, the greater the value.

6. Determine if you have the doll's original outfit. A doll is worth more in the outfit it was wearing when sold.

7. See if you have all the little accessories that came with the doll. Accessories greatly increase the value.

8. Buy a book that lists current values for Barbie dolls. Locate your doll in the book and match the condition to the listings to determine value.

9. Attend Barbie collector shows in your area. Look at other dolls like yours to get an idea of value.

10. Talk to other collectors and ask them about your doll's value.

11. Visit a local store that sells Barbie collector items. Comparison shop for dolls similar to yours.

12. Watch auctions of Barbie items and note the prices.

13. Do an online search for Barbies similar to yours.

Tips & Warnings

• Check more than one pricing guide, then take an average of the prices listed to get a realistic idea of what your doll is worth.
• If you can't find your doll in a pricing guide, pay to have the doll appraised by an expert.
• Remember that your doll may have a lot of sentimental value, even if it does not have a great resale value.

[GLHOFFMAN]

on 12/9/2008 I have approximately 75 new Barbies, more than 1/2 (collectables)the others bought from retail in complete sets, some special promotional size and design Barbies. Everything has been collected in the last 25 yrs. and never out of the box. The complete set is for sale..my email address is [e-mail].

[roya201]

on 3/13/2008 Where do I look to have my Barbie Collection appraised? email is [e-mail]

[ericamarie85]

on 6/17/2007 is there a book that i can buy that will help me find how much more or less my dolls are wroth???? my e-mail is [e-mail]

[bjbushmott]

on 1/12/2007 I have an original Midge doll, no clothes, very little damage. How do I find the value? The date on the rear is 1965, which is about the year I got her. My e-mail is [e-mail]