Since the first introduction in 1956, Barbie dolls have been the fascination of little girls and their moms alike. Doll collecting places second to stamp collecting as the most popular hobby in America. There are Barbie doll clubs, conventions, magazines, newsletters and Internet sites all devoted solely to sharing the love and fascination of Barbie. Today, Barbie dolls are sold in more than 140 countries around the world. It would seem that after all these years Barbie would lose her charm, but collectible Barbie dolls have become a staple in the American household.

Many Barbie dolls are designed and marketed directly to collectors. In 1988 with the introduction of the Happy Holidays series, the market for the collectibles increased as it became popular for adults to purchase Barbie dolls for the sole purpose of collecting with no intention of the dolls being used as toys. Most of these collectors never remove the dolls from their boxes, which can range in price from $35 to hundreds of dollars.

Below are some examples of prices of some antique Barbie's in their original packaging:

1997 Harley Davidson Barbie  - $450
1988 Happy Holidays Barbie  - $850
1990 Bob Mackie Series Barbie – up to $1000

Part of the fascination with vintage Barbie dolls is Barbie’s ability to look perfectly suitable for any occasion. At the beach or at the office, Barbie is always fashionable with the perfect accessories, shoes, purses, hats, scarves and belts. Mattel’s  Barbie dolls are constantly introducing new special edition and limited edition dolls that follow the fashions and trends of teenagers, while at the same time appealing to the adult market by sporting fashions from designers such as Bob Mackie and Vera Wang.

Barbie’s hair is another fascination among collectors.  Young and old girls alike are enamored by Barbie’s beautiful, long tresses that are always perfectly styled and accessorized to suit her outfit. Many of the dolls come with combs, clips and other accessories on which the hair can be styled colored, beaded, or "magically" straightened or curled with water. Examples of these dolls include ‘Happening Hair’, 'Bead Blast', and 'Magic Curl' Barbie.

Thus, the fascination continues as Barbie continues to present us with a reflection of who we are and who we dare to become; she helps us dream and inspires us, and as always looks perfectly stunning!