New research by BonusFinder has discovered that the most valuable Barbie doll is the original iconic doll that was released worldwide in 1959. When the first Barbie doll was produced, there was just one model, but since then, over 170 types have been created, with a broad range of different skin tones, hairstyles, and outfits.
There have also been numerous inspirational career Barbies, including a doctor, a firefighter, a scientist, and even an astronaut. BonusFinder said that Barbies from the 1950s, 1960s, 1970s and 2000s are the most valuable, so if you or someone you know got one as a gift, or picked one up at a car boot sale, it could be worth a small fortune.
If you own the first Barbie dolls that went into production, it could fetch up to £21,995. The second most-expensive doll is the Dahlia Barbie, a 2000s release designed by Robert Best wearing a strapless black and white lace gown complete with opera gloves, silver earrings and a brooch with Swarovski crystals - these dolls could fetch an impressive £1,940.
Golden Gala Barbie is also a doll from the 2000s and worth £1,162. This Barbie wears a gold fishtail dress, a vintage-inspired jacket and long white gloves. If you were lucky enough to get your hands on this Barbie, she could now be worth $1,451 today.
Top 10 most valuable Barbie dolls of all time
BonusFinder has more details on each of these Barbies on their website here.
Barbie doll name, year it was produced and maximum selling price:
- Barbie #1 (1959) - £21,995
- Dahlia Barbie (2006) - £1,940
- Golden Gala Barbie (2009) - £1,162
- Happy Holidays Barbie Brunette (1997) - £962
- City Smart Barbie (2003) - £922
- Byron Lars Coco Barbie (2007) - £882
- Special 2000 Edition Celebration Barbie (2000) - £842
- Barbie Baby-Sits Outfit (1963) - £830
- Harvey Nichols Special Edition Barbie (1995) - £721
- Bob Mackie Countess Dracula Barbie (2011) - £709
Commenting on the research, Fintan Costello, Managing Director at BonusFinder, said: “As popularity and availability increases, resale value goes down. As a rule of thumb, the older the Barbie, the more she’ll be worth - especially in mint or good condition.
“If you’ve still got any Barbies from the ‘60s, ‘70s or ‘80s it could be worth checking their condition and value. When looking to sell your Barbie dolls, or any collectible for that matter, always check other listings to make sure your Barbie comes with all of the extra items she should - if not, value may decrease significantly.”
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