Frequently Asked Questions
Do you buy doll collections?
Sometimes. I mainly buy fashion dolls like Barbie and her competitors. I focus on vintage dolls from the 1960s and 1970s.
I do not buy antique dolls. However, several dealers at my show buy antique dolls.
How do I sell my dolls?
If you are interested in selling a doll or doll collection, the first thing you should do is take pictures of what you have. Any buyer you approach will ask for photos, so it saves time to have some ready. Then, with the pictures on your phone, go to the next doll show and look for vendors with similar dolls. Tell them you have a collection to sell, and show them your photos. It is generally best to approach them in the afternoon, when the show is less busy.
I used to try to match sellers with dealers in their area, but it became too time consuming.
Please note, if you are selling to a dealer, expect them to pay about 50% of the retail value.
I have an old doll. Is it valuable?
Condition is extremely important. If your items have damage, heavy play wear, or an unpleasant odor, that will decrease the value. Alterations (like repainting facial features or replacing wigs) will also affect value.
I am sorry to say, porcelain dolls made in the 1990s or later have no real value. It may be difficult to find a buyer.
I inherited a large doll collection. Can I get a sales table at your show?
Yes! At every show, we have one or two vendors who are doing exactly this.
Do you have appraisers at the show?
We do not have a designated person doing appraisals. You are welcome to ask one of our dealers if they are willing to appraise one or two dolls. They generally prefer to do this in the afternoon, when it is not as busy. Please do not bring a cartful of dolls to have appraised!
If you have a large collection you want appraised, expect to pay the appraiser for their time. Researching, valuing, and documenting a collection is an involved process.
Does anyone at the show restring dolls?
Unfortunately, no. I would love to have someone provide this service at the show, but no one has stepped forward.
Do you do consignments?
No, sorry.