Barbie Dolls

One of the most popular and recognizable doll brands in the 20th and 21st centuries, Barbie dolls are highly sought after by collectors today, particularly well-preserved vintage models. With endless special editions and accessories, Barbie collectors can choose from a dizzying array of dolls and other items.

Barbie is the creation of the Mattel toy company of Hawthorne, California. Ruth Handler, who cofounded Mattel Creations with her husband Elliot, designed the doll to be a toy that would allow young girls to dream about their futures as teenagers and adults. The original 1959 Barbie doll was first introduced as Barbie the Teen-Age Fashion Model. At 11.5 inches tall, she was first displayed at the New York Toy Fair on March 9, 1959 sporting a pony-tail hairstyle, black-and-white striped swimsuit, open-toed shoes, sunglasses, and hoop earrings.

As styles changed with the '60s, so did Barbie. Her ponytail hairstyle evolved to a bubble cut and then to straight, shiny hair. Her makeup became more relaxed and her outfits more diverse. Barbie personas included careers such as astronaut, doctor, and CEO. Barbie has also had a parade of friends over the years, including her including her original best friend, Midge. Her longtime boyfriend Ken debuted on March 11, 1961. Barbie also has several siblings as well as hundreds of accessories.

Quick Facts

• Barbie's full name is Barbara Millicent Roberts from the fictional town of Willows, Wisconsin. She was inspired by the Handlers' daughter Barbara. Barbie's boyfriend Ken was inspired by the Handlers' son Ken
• The best-selling Barbie doll to date is Totally Hair Barbie. Introduced in 1992, her hair measured 10.5 inches long
• The highest price ever paid for a Barbie doll was a special edition Barbie created by Australian jewelry designer Stefano Canturi for the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. The doll was purchased in 2010 for $302,500