Barbies That Are Worth Big Bucks
Many of us have owned a Barbie at some point in our lives. These dolls have been around for many years and continue to remain one of the most popular toys today. Each doll comes with a unique aesthetic; some dolls are princesses while others are astronauts or doctors.
The Barbie doll was invented in 1959 and Mattel has sold over a billion dolls since its introduction to the world. While all Barbies are popular among kids, there are a few that stand out for being particularly valuable -- some of them with price tags that reach into the thousands. Here are the most valuable Barbies in the world today.
Calvin Klein Barbie
In 1996, Mattel created a doll that featured designer Calvin Klein's high-quality denim. The doll is a limited-edition piece and is incredibly hard to find today and is worth $1,400.
This '90s-trend Barbie is adorned in a gray t-shirt worn with a denim jacket. The shirt is imprinted with the CK logo. She's truly a big Calvin Klein fan as she's also wearing Calvin Klein underwear! Other accessories include white sneakers and a backpack.
Summer Daydreams Barbie
Summer Daydreams Barbie is a collector's edition doll that was inspired by the Fashion Classic Series put out by Coca Cola. The doll debuted in 1997, right after the ad for Coke was released. Today, it retails for up to $1,514. This doll is incredibly nostalgic and she's adorned in a long white dress accented with red satin ribbons.
The skirt is lined with white pearl buttons and is worn with a straw hat with a bow. The doll is also holding a small Coke bottle with a straw and an umbrella.
Original Barbie
The first Barbie ever released by Mattel was simply named Original Barbie. Released in 1959, the doll is worth a whopping $27,450 today. This doll is Barbie in her simplest form, sans the fancy outfits and accessories.
Designed by Ruth Handler, Original Barbie is adorned in a black and white striped bathing suit and has her hair styled in a chic '50s hairdo. Her accessories include gold hoops and sunglasses. The best way to tell if your Barbie is a first edition doll is to check for holes at the bottom of her feet -- the first ones had these holes so they could be placed in a stand.
City Smart Silkstone Barbie
City Smart Silkstone Barbie is one of the chicest dolls ever made by Mattel. The doll is incredibly hard to find as only 600 dolls were made. She was introduced in 2003 and is worth $2,995 today. This unique doll is an embodiment of a modern-day, sophisticated woman.
She is wearing a black sheath dress that adds a touch of old school glamour. This is paired with a white hat accented with a black bow. A black handbag and some white gloves complete this iconic look.
Pink Jubilee Barbie
The Pink Jubilee Barbie was introduced in 1989 to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the doll. She was presented to every attendee at a launch party which was held at the Lincoln Center in New York City. This fashionable doll is now worth $800.
Pink Jubilee Barbie's aesthetic is defined by '80s style. Her outfit features a long satin dress in pale pink with a silver print. This is paired with a silver gown that's tied together with a sash on the side. Some dazzling earrings and a big hairdo complete this vintage Barbie doll's look.
The Christie Doll
The Christie Doll was the first African-American doll introduced by Mattel. There are a few variations of the doll, which was first released in 1968 as a friend of Barbie's. Christy also had the ability to talk! This doll can retail anywhere from $100 to $900 today.
If the doll has black hair, it has a higher value. Some dolls have a reddish tint to their hair due to oxidization, which lowers the value. The doll has a body shape similar to Barbie's and they could share clothes.
Ken Doll
Another iconic doll added as a companion to Barbie was her boyfriend, Ken. He was famously known for being Barbie's long-time love interest. The doll was first introduced in 1961, two years after Barbie was released. An original Ken doll has a value of up to $375 today.
According to Mattel, the pair met during a fashion show and were together until 2004 when they went through a brief split, but they were back together by 2011. Ken comes with his own line of various outfits and accessories.
Nascar #94 Barbie
Nascar #94 Barbie is one of the most "all-American" Barbies to exist. In addition to being a Nascar doll, it is also sponsored by McDonald's. Introduced in 1999, this doll was designed by Sharon Zuckerman. It was inspired by race car driver Bill Elliot.
The doll is adorned in a red and yellow race suit that comes with a helmet and a cap. The doll’s visor has "NASCAR" printed on it, front and center. The suit itself features patches with various sponsor names like Bosch and Reese's. Today, Nascar #94 Barbie has a retail price of $2,293.
Stefano Canturi Barbie
The Stefano Canturi doll was introduced in 2010 and is the most expensive Barbie ever sold by Mattel. One reason for the high price tag was because the doll's dress and jewelry were inspired by the world-famous fashion designer, Stefano Canturi.
Barbie's necklace features Australian pink diamonds with an emerald cut. Each stone is a full carat! The necklace also has three carats sparkling white diamonds that add to the beauty. The retail value of this doll is a staggering $302,500.
Chataine Barbie
One of Mattel's signature Barbie dolls is Chataine Barbie, part of the Fashion Model Collection. This doll is the embodiment of opulence and elegance. She was released in 2003 and is a limited edition doll, worth nearly $1,150 today.
Chataine Barbie is adorned in a coffee-colored evening gown with a mermaid skirt. An evening jacket made of lace and sequins is worn over the dress, and a brown fur stole adds to the opulence of this stunning ensemble. The doll’s hair is styled into a chic chignon.
Carol Spencer Holiday Barbie
The Carol Spencer Holiday Barbie was introduced in 1994 and was named after a designer who worked at Mattel for more than 30 years. She was known for giving her dolls incredibly extravagant dresses, and she wanted to design a special doll for the holiday season.
This doll retails at $999 and is really hard to track down, making it a doll collector's dream. The Barbie has puffy red sleeves with a red gown that features pink sequins and green beadwork. Her hair is in a high ponytail and tied with a matching red hair tie.
The Pink Splendor Barbie
The Pink Splendor Barbie was introduced in 1996 and it first retailed for a whopping $900. This doll is incredibly rare and there are only 10,000 dolls in existence around the world, making them difficult to track down. This Barbie is known for her over-the-top hairdo which features a high top bun that is two inches high!
It earned the name Pink Splendor for the doll's satin pink dress that features a gold lace design and a matching bodice. If you wish to own a replica of this doll, you can buy it on Amazon for $339.
Marie Antoinette Barbie
If you're into history, then the Marie Antoinette Barbie is a must-have in your collection. This doll was introduced in 2003 and has a value of $1,250. As the name suggests, this stunning doll was inspired by the French queen and is every bit as royal.
The Marie Antoinette Barbie is adorned in an extravagant regal blue gown with a matching bodice. The dress is enhanced with some gold lace that is embedded across the skirt and the base. A matching hat with feather tassels completes this exquisite look.
'The Birds' Barbie
One of the most unique dolls created by Mattel has to be 'The Birds' Barbie. This doll was inspired by the famous Alfred Hitchcock movie The Birds. Although this Barbie is only worth $250, her uniqueness makes it worth adding to your collection.
She was first introduced in 2008 and was designed by Bill Greening. The designer recreated this outfit from the movie, a stylish lime green suit worn by the lead actress, Tippi Hedren. 'The Birds' Barbie has a terrified look on her face as she is attacked by large blackbirds.
Totally Hair Barbie
If you're into Barbie’s long blonde hair, the Totally Hair Barbie is a must-have in your collection. This doll was a 25th-anniversary edition and was one of Mattel's best-selling Barbies. She was introduced in 1992 and is worth $160 today.
The Barbie takes inspiration from '90s style and has a colorful mini dress and styled with gel earrings. However, it’s the hair that makes this doll so iconic. Long blonde hair flows down to her legs and is held together with a pink hairband. You can find this doll on e-Bay.
Barbie As Medusa
Medusa Barbie was inspired by the famous villain in the Disney movie The Little Mermaid. She was created by designer Linda Kyawfor for adult collectors, not kids. Only 6,500 of these dolls were manufactured so it can be quite the challenge to get your hands on one. Medusa Barbie was created in 2008 and has been sold for $1,500.
Like the movie villain, Barbie is defined by her dark, long, and curly locks. She is dressed in a black fishtail dress with a gold train. Gold snake jewelry adorns the doll’s neck, arms, and ears.
Athena Barbie
In 2010, Barbie released a Greek Goddess Series, including Aphrodite and Medusa. One of the most popular dolls from this collection was Athena Barbie. Only 5,300 copies of this doll were released, and they sell for at least $450 today.
As the goddess of wisdom and battle, Barbie wears golden armor over a black dress. The armor includes a traditional Greek headdress, breastplate, boots, and a shield. The shield says "Athena" in Greek. Barbie also holds a (non-lethal) spear that matches her dark, dramatic makeup.
Devi Kroell Barbie
Another chic fashion Barbie released by Mattel is the Devi Kroell doll. This one was styled by fashion designer Devi Kroell, the famous Italian designer known for his handbags. The doll was released in 2010 and is now worth $1,075.
This Barbie's dressed in a chic cashmere black dress with a bow at the center. This is paired with some knee-high bedazzled boots and a pink handbag. The Devi Kroell Barbie is synonymous with modern-day elegance and sophistication. This on-of-a-kind doll sold for $1,075 at an auction for the Council of Fashion Designers in the U.S.
Lorraine Schwartz Barbie
This doll was designed by the famous jewelry designer, Lorraine Schwartz, who is known for creating pieces that are worn by A-list celebrities like Jennifer Lopez and Beyoncé. The designer teamed up with Mattel Inc to create a doll featuring her jewelry.
The doll was released in 2010 and was sold at an auction for $7,500. This Barbie has long red hair and is adorned in a mini black bodycon dress that comes with a belt and a bedazzled B. A black stole is wrapped around her neck. Barbie's jewelry includes a stack of diamond bracelets and chunky earrings.
American Girl Barbie
The American Girl Barbie was produced between 1965 and 1967 and was known for her glamourous vintage hairstyle. The doll was called Bendable Leg Barbie when she was first introduced and was later renamed American Girl Barbie.
The doll had a pageboy haircut that comes in different colors like blonde, titan, brunette, and platinum. She is adorned in a striped swimsuit and turquoise heels. Since the doll was made in Japan, there are Japanese versions of the doll as well. An American Girl Barbie was recently sold for $180.
Bob Mackie Starlight Splendor Barbie
Released in 1991, the Bob Mackie Starlight Splendor Barbie is the second doll released in the Bob Mackie series. Bob Mackie is an American fashion designer and costumier, and his Barbies wore elaborate costumes. If you're lucky, you can find the Starlight Splendor Barbie for $200 on eBay.
Here, Barbie wears a black and silver feathery gown with over 5,000 hand-sewn beads and sequins. She also has a headdress to match. Her unique outfit comes with a big price, especially since she was released in limited edition.
Ferrari Barbie
In 2001, the first Ferrari Barbie doll dropped. Barbie had appeared in red Ferraris before, but she had never been dressed like the car. Here, she wears the signature red in a sophisticated evening gown. Later editions were released in 2001 and 2006, but if you want the original, you'll have to pay at least $225.
Barbie's floor-length dress is laden with Swarovski crystals that lend her a red carpet look. She wears a red marabou stole and long, matching red gloves. Her hair is in a beautiful updo with a silvery ornament to complete the look.
Gold Label Monique Lhuillier Bride Barbie
In 2006, the famous Monique Lhuillier bridal shop released an exclusive Barbie line. The most expensive option--the Gold Label--sells for $450 today, if you find a deal. This bridal Barbie was designed by Sharon Zuckerman, who created many other famous dolls.
The Barbie wears a stunning A-line wedding dress with a golden sash. The satin sash includes rhinestone accents on the bow and ends. Barbie also wears lace undergarments and a garter that matches the sash. A similar Silver Label was released, but it looks different from the Gold Label.
Queen Elizabeth I Barbie
In 2004, Barbie dressed as one of the most beloved monarchs in history, Queen Elizabeth I. This Barbie came out second in the Women of Royalty series, after Marie Antionette. Although not as exclusive as other dolls on this list, her outfit is so extravagant that she goes for $500 on Amazon.
Queen Elizabeth Barbie wears a white, red, and black 16th-century gown. Opulent jewels adorn the dress and her elaborate headdress. She wears a choker and long, pearl necklaces, and she carries a matching fan.
1996 Happy Holidays Barbie
Plenty of Happy Holidays Barbies appeared throughout the years. But the 1996 Special Edition Barbie is one of the most expensive. She wears a velvet coat with faux fur on the sleeves, neckline, and hat. Underneath, she wears a gold ball gown. She comes in different hair colors and skin tones as well.
If you spot a good deal, you can buy this doll for $750 to $800. The details on the dress, from the gold braids to the buttons, rack up the doll's price. She's also a limited edition Barbie that's hard to find.
Midnight Tuxedo Barbie
If you want the limited edition Midnight Tuxedo Barbie, you'll have to pay nearly $1,000. This Barbie was released on New Years' Day in 2001. She wears a floor-length tuxedo gown with a matching stole and silver accents--definitely a bold statement to make for the new year.
If you can find the Midnight Tuxedo Barbie, expect to pay at least $995. Her floor-length gown resembles a tuxedo, with a dramatic collar and six silver buttons. The dress and coat match her silver bracelet, sparkly earrings, and dramatic makeup.
Dahlia Barbie
In 2006, designer Robert Best created a Barbie that was influenced by Spanish romanticism. This red-haired doll is exceptional and worth at least $1,000. You won't find another Barbie like her, especially for that price.
The Dahlia Barbie, as she's called, wears a floor-length strapless gown. The dress features flowery embroidery and matching sash. White opera gloves stand out against her black-and-white lace dress. Barbie's up-do and bold red lipstick suggest that she is heading to the opera. She is part of the Barbie Fashion Model Collection.
2004 Sales Resistance I Love Lucy Barbie
Many I Love Lucy dolls have appeared in the Barbie Loves Lucy! collection throughout the decades. But none are more valuable than the "Sales Resistance" Barbie released in 2004. Today, this doll costs at least $1,050.
Barbie is dressed in Ball's outfit that appears in the 1953 episode, "Sales Resistance." She wears a navy polka dot dress with a high collar. Her hair and apron match the show, too. Perhaps this Barbie became popular for her iconic '50s look, or perhaps people remember the episode where Lucy buys an expensive vacuum after seeing one on TV.
Empress Josephine Barbie
The Empress Josephine Barbie is the last doll in the Women of Royalty series. Released in 2005, the doll is now valued around $1,099. The designers spared no expensive recreating the look of the first empress of France. Just look at that crown?
Empress Josephine Barbie wears a regal satin gown with golden embroideries. The embroidery continues through her red, velvet robe, which is lined with faux fur. Her jewelry includes two double-strand bracelets, faux earrings, and a faux pearl necklace. Golden shoes can be seen beneath her floor-length dress.
Coach Barbie
If you like the brand Coach, you'll love the Coach Barbie. The doll came out in 2013 as a part of the Gold Label. Her duffel purse was the first genuine leather bag in the Barbie series, made in the Coach bag factory. Today, people pay around $1,500 for her.
To replicate the Coach style, Barbie wears a Classic Trench in Tattersall. Her red sunglasses match her pencil skirt. Underneath the coat, she wears a green striped blouse. The attention to detail, including the many buttons and designer shoes, make this Barbie so expensive.
Barbie Color Magic
In 1966, a special Barbie called the Color Magic doll came out. It stood out from others because you could dye her hair. Models came with blonde or black hair, and a special solution changed their hair color. The Barbie Color Magic doll was so popular that they re-released it in 2003. However, the original version may cost you $1,350 on eBay.
The doll wears a retro, colorful dress with floral designs. You can remove the dress to reveal a bathing suit. Barbie also comes with three hair bands, a hairnet, a bonnet, and four barrettes.
Escada Barbie
In 1996, a limited-edition Barbie came out that wowed fans. The Escada Barbie mirrored the women's designer company by the same name. Her pink-and-black ruffled dress gave her a unique look that still costs a lot today--around $1,414!
Escada Barbie wears a ball gown with a black fitted bodice and cascading ruffles in the skirt. Her matching jacket is also made of silk. She has long, beaded earrings and a bracelet to match. You may notice that she has longer eyelashes than other Barbies, a perfect replica of haute couture.
Trace Of Lace Barbie
The Trace of Lace Barbie is a Japan-exclusive doll like no other. Released by the Platinum label in 2005, this Barbie is now worth around $1,350. Only 500 were released, and blonde and brunette versions are available. She was originally designed for a Japanese collector, and you may have a hard time finding her now.
Trace of Lace Barbie includes a black clutch, silver bracelet, and matching earrings. Her black lace dress is made with chiffon and includes several ruffles. Fishnet tights drop down to black heels. Her makeup features blue eyeshadow, pink lipstick, and winged eyeliner.
La Belle Epoque Barbie
The La Belle Epoque Barbie was designed for the Paris Fashion Doll Festival in 2012. Her outfit is a twist on 1920s Parisian fashion. This Platinum-label doll sells for $850 today, but if you get her in the box, she could cost up to $1,395.
Robert Best created La Belle Epoque Barbie and spared no expense. She wears a lilac gown with puffy sleeves with oversized bows. Black opera gloves match the tie on her back, and her hair sports a pink feather. Faux pearl necklaces complete the look.
Faerie Queen Barbie
Time to shake things up with a fantasy-inspired Barbie. The doll came out in 2004 as a part of the Legends of Ireland Collection. However, only 500 of these Irish mythical figures were released. If you want one, you may need to pay around $1,500.
The Faerie Queen Barbie wears an iridescent chiffon gown that shimmers in the light. The taffeta underdress is decorated with glitter designs. Her rich brown hair holds a tall crown that matches the fairy's scepter. And what's a fairy without wings? It's a Barbie unlike any other.
Princess Of The Korean Court Barbie
In 2004, Barbie released a doll for Sol Nal, the Korean New Years' Day on the first day of spring. Her outfit replicated the traditional Korean dress called a hanbok. Today, the Princess Of The Korean Court Barbie sells for around $1,515.
Barbie dresses like a traditional Korean princess. Her hair is in elaborate braids with pink and golden embellishments. Her green jacket has elaborate embroideries with floral designs and ribbons. When you see the attention to detail, you'll know why this doll is so highly valued.
Hair Happenin's Barbie
Like Barbie Color Magic, the vintage Hair Happenin's doll allows people to customize Barbie's hair. In 1971, Hair Happenin's offered multiple hairstyles that people could swap out. It is one of the rarest dolls from the Mod Barbie era, and that's why it auctioned for $1,600 in 2018.
The original Hair Happenin's wore a pink ruffled skirt, white blouse, and black waist belt. She came with a short, light-brown bob and three other detachable hairstyles. She was exclusive to certain department stores and only sold for one year.
Violette Barbie
Out of all the dolls in the Barbie Fashion Model Collection, Violette Barbie is perhaps the most sought-after. This Platinum Label doll released in 2005, and it is worth $1,750 today. Barbie wears a purple floral ball gown that stands out in any collection.
Her gown is printed silk organza with violet leaf and flower designs. Underneath the gown, she wears a satin underdress with a tulle petticoat and lilac taffeta trim. Her taffeta gloves, waist bow, and hairpiece match the trim. What a beautiful gown!
Sparkle Beach Barbie
If you want a glamorous surfer Barbie, Sparkle Beach Barbie is the most valuable. This vintage doll from 1995 resembles Southern California style. She has a dark tan with a blue and silver sparkly bikini. Several versions were released, from blonde to black hair, yellow to purple bikinis. If you can find an original in the box, you'll pay around $2,000.
Along with the iridescent bikini, Barbie wears silver earrings and a choker. Her hair is styled in the big, wavy style of the '90s. Her eyeshadow also matches the swimsuit. For a surfer, she sure is stylish!
