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Collecting Ideal Dolls

Beginning in the early 1900s, the Ideal Toy Co. made America's dolls of choice--and their popularity lasted for decades. Today, Ideal dolls are sought-after collectors' items. The cute figures, complete with outfits, include representations of Shirley Temple, Miss Revlon and Thumbelina. Before you start your collection, find out all you can about the dolls--from prices to composition (they were made of different materials as technology developed). Then have a great time networking with other collectors and locating and buying your Ideal dolls.

Instructions

- 1
  Learn everything about Ideal dolls from 1907 through the 1980s (when they stopped being made). You'll find several illustrated resources to help you. A good place to begin is the book "Collector's Guide To Ideal Dolls: Identification &Values" by Judith Izen. Web sites can be helpful, too (see Resources). If you're looking for price ranges, make sure your resource is up to date.
- 2
  Join a doll club to network, chat and learn more about the dolls you like. You can find general organizations such as The United Federation of Doll Clubs and, from there, ask other members to point you to more specific clubs. You may end up discovering a Shirley Temple club or a group of Ideal doll collectors in your area.
- 3
  Shop around on web sites--you'll find hundreds of quality Ideal dolls for sale. (See Resources.) You can also locate doll clothing and accessories, dollhouses, doll furniture and doll parts. If you like auctions, place a bid online for an Ideal doll. When you buy any Ideal doll, be sure to ask about its identifying marks. Except for very early ones, the dolls should feature the words "Ideal Doll," plus a model number.

Collecting Vintage Toys