Your Old Barbie Dolls Could Be Worth Thousands

Mattel introduced the very first perky-ponytailed plastic doll in 1959, and some savvy collectors have left them untouched in the box for decades. If you happen to have a new, in-box Barbie from the early years or one of the rare special editions that’s never been played with, you could be in for a mega payday.

See below for some of highest paid-for Barbie dolls on eBay, and get ready to feel inspired to go hunting for your own.

What makes a recently launched Barbie so valuable? Honestly, your guess is as good as mine on this one. This brand-new specialty doll fetched a truly astronomical price. It still included the original packaging.

The seller notes, “her face paint is all original and ga ga ga gorgeous making her ‘museum quality.’” With brunette hair and iconic black and white swimsuit, The 1959 original Barbie also comes with all her accessories and box. This particular Barbie was original sold by a traveling Mattel salesman who sold Barbies as well as other Mattel toys around Illinois.

In spite of a few minor flaws and subtle wear and tear, this original Barbie sold for more than $5,000. She does have some green dots on her hip, butt, and tummy, but they “do not detract from the beauty of this doll,” according to the seller. The doll features all the authentic T.M. markings, plus the original swimsuit, cat eye glasses, Japan number one heels, and a pink booklet with the box.

This vintage Barbie is dressed in a rare swimsuit and is in mint-in-box condition. The seller writes, “This gal looks like she came straight out of a time machine from 1966 to you!  She has amazing original paint and gobs of original blush.  Her hair and body are perfect.”

This limited-edition doll decked out for the holidays is hard to come by. It may not have fetched a price in the thousands, but over $500 isn’t too shabby. It’s in used condition, but the 1990s Disney doll is in demand.

This vintage Barbie dates back to 1959 is still in mint condition in the box. The doll is all original with no repainting or retouching, and the blonde factory hair set. Her complexion is soft ivory pink and consistent from head to toe.

This vintage Barbie set was a JCPenney exclusive and in excellent condition within the original box. The doll, complete with bendable legs, comes with all her clothing and accessories for a game of tennis.