Collecting antique dolls is a hobby that a lot of women grow into or would like to if they had the time or and the money. A collection of antique dolls in a gorgeous display case is a very attractive asset, but collecting antique dolls is not as easy as it may seem.
Well, to define that in the right manner, it depends what you would like the antique dolls for. As with any hobby that has the capability to make the collector money, it is not easy to get it correct, but if you merely want to enjoy your collection you will have an easier time of it.
Millions of women collect old dolls, but it is unlikely that many of them actually make any money out of their hobby, because you have to study and the professional competition is fierce. It is the same as collecting coins or stamps: you can have a beautiful collection of beautiful commemorative stamps or coins that is worthless in monetary terms, because there were too many of that type or that year manufactured, whereas you could have a collection of a dozen dreary stamps worth a million.
Therefore, if you want to start a collection of antique dolls, the first thing to do is visit the library and borrow some books on the subject. If there are no illustrations, you can probably find some photos on the Net in order to afford identification easier.
One of the first items you need to acquaint yourself with is the names of the most famous makers of dolls in the 150 years of the Nineteenth and early Twentieth Centuries. Learn the names of the companies, the names of the dolls and an average cost.
If you come across what you think is a bargain at a car boot or yard sale, do not be put off by a shabby appearance. Many dolls lead a rough life, but they can be repaired pretty easily and there are numerous dolls’ hospitals if you need expert help, advice or specialist parts like eyes or buttons. The original clothing can be repaired or replaced and the doll would still be valuable if it is rare, popular or sought after.
You know, some things are not especially rare but are still costly because they capture the imagination of a lot of individuals. Baby Boomer toys from the Fifties and Early Sixties will almost certainly acquire this status when the Boomers retire and perhaps start a collection.
Look out for antiques fairs to help you gain more first hand knowledge. There are frequently specialized antiques fairs in fairly large towns and one type of fair is antique toys, in which the section on antique dolls is sure to feature fairly prominently. It is very useful to be able to see the dolls ‘in the flesh’ so to speak in order to know what you ought to be looking out for whilst browsing.
Books, photos and the Internet are great resources, but there is no replacement for hands-on experience and talking with collectors and dealers who are passionate about collecting antique dolls.
Owen Jones, the writer of this article, writes on a variety of topics, but is now concerned with Silver Cross Dolls Prams. If you would like to know more, please go over to our web site at Doll Prams.
