Doll collecting – it’s not just about Barbie. Want proof of that? This Barbie doll, stand, pamphlet and outfit may be worth just under $10K but a recent auction saw a urethane Chucky doll sell for a whopping $17,959.00. And there were 49 bidders hoping to snag the likeness of the iconic little monster. An appraiser would have a difficult time placing that high of a pre-auction figure on it because there aren’t any comparables available. And in the world of appraising dolls, comps are what determine an items value. Appraising and donating a doll collection to a museum, charity or university is both worthwhile and financially beneficial to you. They can enhance many lives through both their viewing pleasure and educational value. The IRS tax deduction that is enjoyed by the donor is, of course, another good reason for considering such a gift. The St. Lucie Appraisal Company provides fair market valuation appraisals in all 50 states for many useful purposes such as estate dissolution, insurance, equitable distribution, damage claims as well as for donations. Call us when you need an appraisal of Barbie and other doll collections.
The world of doll collecting has never seen more activity. Pictured is a beautiful Simon Halbig / Kammer Reinhardt antique bisque-headed doll. She is in fair condition and worth approximately $2,500. Should the owner of this doll wish to sell it, collectors from around the world will line up for the chance to buy it. It is encouraging to see that economic constraints don’t necessarily apply to all segments of business. Appraising the values of these types of collections though, is tricky. Very tricky.
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Hire an Experienced Doll Appraiser for Insurance, Estates or Donations
This doll is a rare Lenci 28″ Series 165 Cigarette Girl circa 1928. She is holding a cigarette and, in excellent condition, would be valued at $12,000. This antique doll is a collector’s dream and would be much sought after if offered on the market. Actively browsing museums, antique shops and private collections provides an invaluable education toward learning proper appraisal methods.
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An unusual 1959 Brunette Ponytail Barbie features cat eyes and big red lips. She sports a black and white diagonally striped one piece bathing suit and appraises for around $5,000 in good condition.
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Here’s another variation on the 1959 Barbie collection. The blonde Barbie pictured has all the trademark features of that era – arched eyebrows, almond-shaped eyes and perfect lips. This example has no clothing but she must have originally been dressed elegantly because, as you can see, she is wearing pearl earrings instead of hoops. Our insurance appraisal for this doll in the original box would also be in the vicinity of $5,000.
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The final antique doll shown here is a Bru Jne 12 named Odette. Unfortunately, she has fallen on hard times and needs a complete restoration although all parts are intact. Dolls manufactured by from 1889-1899 by the Bru Jne & Cie Company of France have almost unlimited potential as investments. An appraiser rarely comes across dolls such as these. Regardless of her condition, this example of one of the most rarest of dolls was recently purchased for $27,869.40.
We most commonly appraise dolls and similar items for insurance, estate and charitable donation purposes. It is also not unusual for valuations of doll collections to be requested in divorce proceedings. When seeking an expert to place an accurate valuation on a doll collection, try to ask specific questions, especially concerning the exact types of dolls you wish to have appraised.
The cost of a fair market value appraisal depends upon the research necessary to make an accurate determination. However, with the extensive database of past sales at our disposal, The St. Lucie Appraisal Company can most often provide an appraisal of a small doll collection for $375.00.
The St. Lucie Appraisal Company
Service in all 50 States
Phone: (772) 359-4300
Email: contact@stlucieappraisal.net
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