Getting rid of your old dolls can be difficult. In addition to having sentimental value as a symbol of your childhood, you might wonder if some of your dolls hold any monetary value.

Barbie dolls have been collector’s items for decades, and their popularity continues to grow. With a wide range of different Barbie’s that have appeared on the market, some have become more valuable than others.

Knowing what to look for in your old Barbie collection will help you determine whether your dolls are worth treasuring, or are simply ready for junk removal.

Barbie’s History

Barbie is considered an icon in today’s culture. Having been launched in 1959 by Mattel, Inc., the doll has undergone a number of transformations. Over time, it’s become a staple in the childhood of young girls all over the world.

The Barbie line included other collectible figures, and it’s marketing was based exclusively in the television medium—a first for the toy industry—and paved the way for similar dolls and products.

Over 1 billion Barbie dolls have been distributed around the globe, making it one of the most successful toys in history. The dolls include accessories and clothing, and have been translated into books, games, and other products.

Disney Princess Barbie

The 1990’s saw the introduction of the Disney Princess Barbie dolls, integrating the Barbie brand with Disney and its films.

These Barbies were a popular way of cross marketing for both industries, leading to a number of new and unique Barbies being introduced to the market.

Is Your Barbie Valuable?

The number of different Barbie dolls available has created a collector’s market for these dolls. If you have old Barbie dolls that are set to go into the junk removal pile, you may be wondering if they’re worth keeping.

Vintage Barbie’s are distinguished by the application of the copyright information on the their backsides. Many now include it on the lower back, but those with the classic backside copyright are considered truly vintage. These were produced between 1959 and 1972.

Barbie dolls that were produced in Japan have also been highly sought after. In addition, many dolls are marked “1966”. This can be misleading, as even dolls that were produced in the 90’s bear this marking.

90’s Disney Princess Barbies do not sell for very high prices. In general, those dolls that are considered vintage, and have the qualifying features are the ones that are worth keeping.

As difficult as it may be, it’s more likely that your Barbie belongs in the junk removal bin along with the other clutter you’re getting rid of.

Barbie dolls continue to be popular among young girls, and new models will continue to appear on the market for years to come.