Written by Irene | 3rd July 2018
For centuries, dolls have been a way for adults to recapture childhood. Some the most beautiful, lifelike and detailed dolls have been created over the years, providing today’s collectors with an interesting bit of history. Ever wondered how much your antique doll are worth? Here's our expert's guidelines for determining the value of your antique dolls.
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Factor 3: Original parts
Before you consider putting your antique doll up for auction, take a good look at it. Is it complete? For example, if the doll was originally able to produce sounds, the doll will be much more valuable if this function still works. Many dolls we find today are put together from antique doll parts, while a completely original doll that consists of the original parts, wig and clothes is becoming quite rare. An original doll with antique clothes from another doll can still be rather valuable, however, as this doll originally made by Simon & Halbig shows, with her head coming from Kämmer & Reinhardt, she sold for far less than if she had been fully original.
As with every antique item, condition is key to collectors: no one wants a doll that has been well loved. Mint condition dolls are very rare however, so don’t be to disappointed if your doll has a flaw. For example, this Jumeau 8 doll below from 1900 is in good condition and was worth € 580, while a Jumeau 8 doll from the same time period but with damage from play was less valuable, but still worth €370 on a Catawiki auction.
This Jumeau 8 doll below from 1900 is in good condition and was worth € 580
The same that's true for all antiques also applies to antique dolls: the better the condition, the greater the chance your doll will be profitable on an online auction. Look for chips, smudges, repairs, and signs of wear. Could a collector position the doll in a showcase? Also check whether the elastics of your doll are tight or loose; this has an effect on the arms and legs and therefore the posture of the doll.