Many of the older models of American Girl dolls could be worth a lot of money

By Rebelander Basilan

Dec 29, 2018

12:54 A.M.

Old American Girl dolls may be more valuable than you think.

One Samantha Parkington doll recently sold on eBay for $400. Released in 1986, the doll was sold with her original outfit and accessories, as reported by TODAY.

The reason ‘80s and ‘90s dolls command high value is that they have elaborate outfits and come with adorable, miniature accessories. Each doll also has an interesting historical backstory.

“An original Samantha doll made by the Pleasant Company commands $4,000 in excellent condition with outfits and ‘meet’ accessories,” said Dr. Lori Verderame, an antique appraiser.

She said that Dolls made by the Pleasant Company in the pre-Mattel years often command high values.

OTHER HOT-ITEM DOLLS

Other ‘80s dolls that are priced high these days are the Molly McIntire doll, which recently sold on eBay for $1,200, and the Kirsten Larson doll, which sold for $540.

The reason ‘80s and ‘90s dolls command high value is that they have elaborate outfits and come with adorable, miniature accessories. Each doll also has an interesting historical backstory.

Verderame said other factors that affect the price are age, the accessories and the condition of the doll’s hair and other parts.

Vintage lifestyle expert Bob Richter said that packaging also matters.

He said: “Some of the discontinued dolls from the ‘90s can sell for thousands of dollars. That said, original packaging and condition are everything. What might sell for over $2,000 if it’s in good condition with original packaging might only sell for $100 if it’s in fair condition without packaging.”

LIFE-LIKE DOLLS

In a related story, artist Stephanie Ortiz has created dolls that are growing popular because they look alive.

An avid doll collector, Ortiz launched a line of life-like baby dolls called “Reborn.” She drew her inspiration from the birth of her own child.

The dolls are so life-like that it’s hard to tell these are not real babies at first look. They sell for $600 to $900 apiece. It has become such a hot item for adult women that Ortiz has had trouble keeping with the orders.