Collecting Dolls

Submitted by: Lily Morgan

Doll collecting is a hobby that has been in practise for many years. There are collectors that dedicate their entire hobby interest to dolls, dollhouses and the proper maintenance of them. Hobbies such as this are not for the weak. It takes plenty of time and commitment to grow a substantial doll collection. Beginners should take a time out to consider the many facets of doll collecting. It certainly should be a decision made based on joy and passion. Doll collecting is a much bigger world than some might think based on first impressions.

For the beginner that is seriously interested in devoting time to making doll collecting a viable hobby, it’s important to seek out information. Be sure that any sources used for facts and information gathering are reputable. It’s incredibly easy to be misled by websites or other sources that are not accurate. It’s important to know what you want to get out of your doll collecting experience. Going in blind can leave you feeling clueless and uncertain of where or how to begin.

The first thing that most would be doll collectors should do is read up on the most basic and common types of collectible dolls. There are certain ones that can easily be identified if you know what to look for. Getting informed should always be used as a starting point. There are many fabulous resources that can assist new doll collectors in their new endeavour. Try an online search or consult the library for hobby books.

Look into doll shows and exhibits. This is an ideal place for getting acquainted with other doll collectors. It also opens your eyes to a whole new world. Plenty can be learned from attending a doll exhibit. Don’t hesitate to ask questions of the professionals since there is no better place to gain valuable information. Browsing through the many dolls on display is great for getting ideas and insight on the many possibilities associated with collecting dolls.

One thing about being a collector of any type of item is that you must always keep your eyes open for that one great find. Some of the most valuable dolls collected were saved from somebody’s attic or storage room. Garage sales tend to have more antiques than one would assume. Many people selling old dolls are not even aware of the potential collectible within their possession. Don’t underestimate the bargains you can find by perusing garage sales and second hand stores for dolls and doll accessories.

Of course it should go without saying that dolls must be properly and carefully stored. To improperly store a doll of value may effectively reduce the worth of the doll. Paying attention to factors like temperature and moisture is extremely important. Too much or too little of either of these can be detrimental. If you know you have dolls of value or wish to preserve them so they may increase in worth, seek out professional assistance. Collecting dolls requires patience and persistence, both of which always pay off.

About the Author: Add to your miniature collection, or start a new one! Come see our large selection of doll house furniture kits and accessories. Visit us online at http://www.TheMagicalDollhouse.com today.

Source: www.isnare.com
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Doll Collecting by Blake Hygate

Doll collecting is a hobby that has grown in popularity. Doll collecting basics includes identifying dolls and their values, how to protect and preserve dolls, how to photograph your dolls and how to sell your dolls for the best prices.


Antique dolls are those created before 1930. This would include bisque, china, papier mâché, wood and wax dolls. Early dolls were produced in 1850 by individual English craftsmen. The dolls were made by carving the wood, handpainting their features, and clothing the dolls. In excellent conditions, these dolls referred to as "Queen Anne" dolls can be quite valuable. An early 19th century doll in excellent condition is valued at $1,500. A late 17th century Queen Anne doll in excellent condition is valued at over $20,000; these are very rare, with less than 30 reported.

Following the Queen Anne dolls in succession were the papier mâché dolls. Made in the early 19th century and continuing through the early 20th century, the dolls were made in the United States, Germany and France. They cost less to manufacture than the Queen Anne dolls because molds could be used. The German doll making industry became a leader in doll production. The American doll making industry was represented from 1840 to 1874 by Ludwig Greiner of Philadelphia. The traditional papier mâché doll has molded hair painted black, limbs made of wood, handpainted eyes, with a child's body. Glass eyes are available on a few dolls. Papier mâché dolls in excellent condition are an extreme rarity. A small, marked post-1872 Grenier can fetch $500 while an extraordinary German "milliners" doll could be valued over $2,000.

The next generation of dolls was the wax dolls. Again, the earliest wax dolls were manufactured by England craftsmen around 1840.They were created by home-based businesses by pouring liquid into molds and then setting the hair and glass eyes in the head. The bodies were made of stuffed cloth while the limbs were made of wax. Wax has proven to provide a realistic media for doll heads because wax can imitate skin better than wood or papier mâché. Wax dolls from the mid-19th century England can range in value from $1000 to $2000.

The typical antique doll is the china doll and parians. The china doll, popular from 1840 to 1880, featured fashionably dressed ladies with glazed porcelain head with identifiable hairstyles. For example, the Dolly Madison doll had all over curls and a ribbon. The parian dolls had head made of unglazed porcelain. A widespread doll such as the 1860s Highland Mary is valued at $300. A china doll with an elaborate hairstyle and ornamentation can be valued at several thousand and may be considered rare.

German and French bisque dolls were formed from the 1840s until after World War I. Fashion dolls depicted ladies dressed in gorgeous reproductions of current fashions. Jurneau, Rohmer, Simone and Huret were the leading manufacturers. Prices vary for fashion dolls; approximately $2,000 is the value for an unmarked fashion doll and $20,000 and up or more for Hurets and rare examples in their original outfits.

Doll collecting is an enjoyable hobby for all. Research must be done in order to recognize valuable dolls. Care must be taken to maintain and preserve the condition of the doll and protect your investment.
Blake Hygate owns a website dedicated to Antique Toys and Vintage Toys.