Hobbies And Interests
Things You'll Need
Instructions
Find any markings on your doll. Markings are generally found on the doll's back, the back of the head, the lower torso, inner thigh, or bottom of the foot. Note the company, doll's name, date, patent number, country of origin or any other information stamped, embossed, pressed, painted or drawn onto the doll. A marked doll can be investigated specifically. An unmarked doll must be researched by comparing photographs and details of identical or similar dolls.
Search for identical or similar dolls on online auction sites, noting the details and starting bids. For websites that allow access to archived closed auctions, note the price for which the doll sold. According to Ebay Guides, the doll's condition, age, and popularity all play a part in the doll's value.
Find information about your marked doll on the manufacturer's website. You won't always find specific details about your doll, but sometimes a photo of a mint doll will be posted along with the original production date. Contact the customer service department to obtain more information if an email address or telephone number is listed.
Read current price guides for marked dolls, such as dolls from Effanbee, Arranbee, Vogue, Franklin Mint, Cabbage Patch and Mattel. Price guides are usually valid for one year because doll values change over time. Dolls such as Barbie, Ginny, the Patsy family of Effanbee dolls, Shirley Temple, and Terry Lee dolls have their own price guides because of their popularity. Write down the price for the doll or similar doll. Price guides can assist you in determining the doll's condition and value, according to the Antique Antique website. The guides also have photographs for comparison.
Compare the prices you've found during your investigation. Typically, your doll will be worth more than the lowest price, but not as much as the highest price unless your doll meets "mint" criteria. It's safe to assume that your collectible doll has a value somewhere in the middle of the prices you've discovered, unless you have the exact doll noted in a price guide.