As is the case with any sort of collectibles, there are quite a few fictional stories (or urban legends to some) and rumors that may tend to mislead the newbie collector. The stories are constantly being changed and distorted all to improve the "value" of a certain collection. If you are new to doll collecting or have been collecting for a long time, its important to keep on top of the rumor mill. It does no harm for you to do a little investigating to determine the facts with regard to these stories before may a tradeo or purchase.
Many times you can be misled with regard to certain versions or designs for the year on a particular doll. There are many commonly told stories with respect to the Barbie doll. The standard legend in the collectible world is that the Barbie with the year 1966 printed on the back was particulalry valueable. This has led many a collector to be very disappointed when they find out that this is not really the fact. The year is for the patent date for the Barbie doll and not for the manufacturing date. The manufacturing date printed on the back has not extra value at all.
Another large misconception has to do with how the doll is displayed and handled. A doll should not just be locked away in plastic or a glass case and left there for eternity – its not like a mint proof coin for heaven’s sake – its a toy whose purpose is to bring joy and happiness to the owner. If a doll is well cared for it will have the same value as one that has been locked away in pristine condition.
Another common myth is the fact that the age of the doll and its value go hand in hand. This is not always the case and in many instances the older doll ends up almost worthless. The key to collecting is two fold – how many of the dolls still exist and how many people want to own it. Its simply a case of supply and demand when it comes to collectibles of any sort.
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