The Ultimate Guide to Making Money by Collecting Barbie Dolls

The Ultimate Guide to Making Money by Collecting Barbie Dolls

The allure of collecting Barbies remains strong as ever, with the iconic doll’s popularity showing no signs of slowing down. With over a billion dolls sold over six decades, barbie doll collecting has become a lucrative market for collectors.

In this guide, we’ll delve into the world of collecting Barbies, discussing the different eras, what to look for, and where to find them. We’ll also share some tips to help you make money from your Barbie dolls collection.

Identifying the Eras of Barbie Collecting

Barbie collectors typically recognize three main eras:

1. The Vintage Era (1959-1972)
2. The Modern Era (1972 onwards)
3. The Collectible Era (initiated by Mattel in 1986)

Understanding these eras is essential for any serious Barbie collector, as it helps to identify and categorise the dolls accurately.

Tips for Successful Barbie Doll Collecting

To make the most of your Barbie collecting journey, consider the following tips:

Look for dolls with unique features: Variations in eye colour or hairstyle can increase their value.

Keep your dolls and outfits boxed: Although unboxed dolls can still be sold, boxed examples fetch higher prices. Many collectors buy two of each doll—one to keep in the box and one to play with or display.

Specialise in a specific area: With the vast range of Barbie products available, collectors often focus on one niche, such as Vintage, Pink Box, or Collectible Editions.

Determining the Value of Your Barbie Dolls Collection

The key to successful Barbie collecting is predicting which dolls will gain value over time. As a general rule, go for the models most desired by today’s children, as they are likely to pay more for these dolls in the future. Vintage Barbies in flawless condition can fetch astonishing prices, particularly in the United States.

Where to Find and Buy Barbie Dolls for Your Collection

Several resources can help you find and buy Barbie dolls for your collection:

Specialist magazines and websites: These platforms provide valuable information on what’s available and allow you to compare prices.

Collectors’ clubs: Joining a local collectors’ club can give you access to valuable tips and insights.

Auctions and car boot sales: Dedicated collectors may find bargains at these events, although valuable dolls are less likely to be found at charity shops.

Online platforms: Websites like eBay and Amazon offer a vast array of old and new collectibles to start or expand your collection.

Understanding the Lingo of Barbie Collectors

To navigate the world of Barbie collectors, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the following terms:

• MIN (Mint In Box)
• MNB (Mint No Box)
• MIP (Mint In Package)
• NRFB (Never Removed from Box)
• HTF (Hard To Find)
• A/O (All Original)
• OSS (Original Swimsuit)
• C1 – C10: The grading system for Barbies, with C10 being the best possible quality (NRFB)
• Customized Dolls: Dolls created for a specific purpose
• Mint & Complete: Barbies in ideal condition, with all their accessories present

Types of Barbie Dolls to Look For

Some examples of sought-after Barbie dolls include:

• Twist ‘N Turn waist: Common feature of Barbies from the mid-1960s onwards
• Vintage Barbie: All Barbies created before 1972
• Modern Barbie: All Barbies created from 1972 onwards

Conclusion…

Collecting Barbie dolls can be a fun and profitable hobby, provided that you invest time and effort into it. By understanding the different eras, identifying unique features, specialising in a specific area, and keeping your dolls in pristine condition, you can increase the value of your collection.

Additionally, exploring various resources such as collectors’ clubs, auctions, and online platforms can help you find and purchase Barbies for your collection. With patience and dedication, you can turn your Barbie dolls collection into a lucrative investment.