Loving You Barbie – $810
First released in 1983, Loving You Barbie has become the Holy Grail for many doll enthusiasts, thanks to her beautiful floor-length gown complete with velvet hearts, puff sleeves and heart-shaped bodice. Then there’s the unique accessories, including heart-shaped stationary, stickers and a stamper that fits in Barbie’s hand! With all the accessories included, Loving You Barbie will set you back over $800 secondhand.
Happy Holidays Barbie – $697
Happy Holidays Barbies have been a mainstay of the toy line for decades, but it is the original 1988 iteration that enthusiasts go wild for, in her poinsettia-red dress and tinsel-puffed sleeves. Mattel never expected it to become a collector’s item, but when the limited edition doll sold out immediately, they realized they had a hit. Today, original Happy Holidays Barbies sell for almost $700!
Magic Curl Barbie – $653
The 80s are famous for big shoulder pads and even bigger hair, so in 1981 Mattel introduced the Magic Curl Barbie, whose hair could be curled and straightened. This revolutionary new hair technology made this Barbie ultra-popular back in the day. Women’s fashions and hairstyles may have changed over the years, but Magic Hair Barbies still regularly sell for over $650 on the secondhand market!
Pink & Pretty Barbie – $489
If you prefer sophistication to straight-up sparkle, 1981’s Pink & Pretty Barbie is for you. She has a fur stole, huge fur-trimmed hat, and a fur-trimmed tulle dress to top it off. Made in Taiwan only, it was released in a larger-than-usual run, yet this has not affected their resale price. Pink & Pretty Barbie dolls still regularly sell for upwards of $450.
Feelin’ Groovy Barbie – $448
The word ‘groovy’ carries with it hippy-dippy 60s connotations, yet 1986’s Feelin’ Groovy Barbie (designed by artist/Andy Warhol muse BillyBoy*) looks more like a wicked stepmother with her black and silver fur-trimmed, high-collared jacket, deep purple satin top and matching leggings. Nevertheless, there’s no denying this Barbie makes an impact, which might be why she is worth almost $450 on the secondhand market.
Barbie and Ken Camping Out – $402
This 1983 Barbie and Ken Camping Out toy set raises more questions than it answers. How can they possibly be camping without a tent, and why are they dressed so matchy-matchy? Are they camp counsellors? Whatever the case, you could probably buy a real tent for the price of these dolls secondhand, as in-the-box examples often sell for over $400.
Crystal Barbie – $390
Introduced in 1983, Crystal Barbie sports a mermaid-cut gown with a tulle boa and tulle flare at the bottom of the dress, in addition to diamond earrings and a diamond necklace made from transparent plastic. As well as Crystal Barbie, a Crystal Ken was also released, and both have a secondhand resale price of around $390 for mint condition, in-the-box examples.
Peaches and Cream Barbie – $384
If any Barbie doll epitomizes 80s glamour, it’s 1984’s Peaches and Cream Barbie. She wears a delicate, almost blush-colored tulle ballgown, complete with combs shaped like peach blossoms and a floaty stole. Peaches and Cream Barbies were produced in both Taiwan and the Philippines, but the Taiwanese version is more popular amongst enthusiasts, and so has a slightly higher resale price of over $380!
Golden Dream Barbie – $381
Golden Dream Barbie was released in 1980 and came with a shiny faux-lamé pantsuit, a beautiful big blond blowout laced with gold tinsel, and open-toe crystal heels. In short, she looks ready to hit the red carpet and any after-parties that might follow! Golden Dream Barbies have a fluctuating resale value that sits mostly between $380 and $400.
Fabulous Fur Barbie – $355
Fabulous Fur Barbie was released in 1983 and as such now feels anachronistic, as society no longer idolizes fur as the pinnacle of luxury like it used to. Despite this, Fabulous Fur Barbie is considered to have one of the most elegant looks in Mattel’s history, leading to a resale price of over $350.
Music Lovin’ Barbie – $322
Capitalizing on the 80s Walkman craze, 1985’s Music Lovin’ Barbie features the blonde doll in a complimentary lemon yellow sparkly jumpsuit, complete with tinsel legwarmers and crocheted yellow jacket. Is Barbie going to an aerobics class where you have to provide your own music? Is she super into silent discos? Whatever the answer, a Music Lovin’ Barbie typically fetches over $320 secondhand.
Great Shape Barbie – $250
Fitness was a huge part of the 80s, so one of the biggest releases of the toy world in 1983 was Great Shape Barbie and Ken, who wore matching cassette players in addition to their sweatbands, leotards and gym bags. A mint condition Great Shape Barbie has been known to sell for $533, but the average price for an in-the-box example is around $250.
Astronaut Barbie – $248
The genius of Barbie is that she can be anything a child could dream of being, so it was only a matter of time before she went to the moon. 1985’s Astronaut Barbie has a stylish pink and silver spacesuit, complete with silver boots, cape and puffed sleeves (practical!) To add this Barbie to your collection today, you’ll need to set aside nearly $250.
Twirly Curl Barbie – $220
1982’s Twirly Curls Barbie had extra long, straight hair that could be twirled into two-strand braids by the so-called Twirly Curler, a gadget that could also be used on the child playing with Barbie. Many Twirly Curl Barbies have succumbed to frizz over the decades, but they still command a secondhand price of $220 when the Twirly Curler is included.
Olympic Skating Star Barbie – $217
Released to tie in with the 1988 Winter Olympics Calgary, Olympic Skating Star Barbie proved popular enough to be rereleased in 1995. The original iteration of the doll features a white sparkly sweater with tulle accents and even comes with roses thrown at her to celebrate her amazing performance. This in-demand Barbie has a resale price of over $200 when kept in good, in-the-box condition.
Funtime Barbie – $217
1986’s Funtime Barbie is dressed in a tinsel crop top emblazoned with a day-glo clock, with matching sparkly lilac shorts, fabric ankle warmers and plastic purple trainers. The Chinese-made Funtime Barbie is most sought out collectors, owing to the plastic degrading more slowly. To add a still-in-the-box example of this 80s doll to your collection, you’ll need to be willing to shell out over $200.
Dance Sensation Barbie – $201
1983’s Dance Sensation Barbie was part of the Spectacular Fashions series, which also included Red Sizzle Barbie and Blue Magic Barbie. She wears a pink and purple leotard and detachable tulle skirt that would be perfect for the dance studio. In 2023, the value of Dance Sensation Barbie climbed to just over $200.
Dream Glow Barbie – $199
1977 saw the beginning of Barbie’s Superstar Era, a high fashion period in which she was always red-carpet ready. Of these dolls, maybe the girliest of them all is 1985’s Dream Glow Barbie, which features a crushed velvet, lace-tripped pink bodice and tiered ballgown skirt emblazoned with stars. This pretty in pink look is coveted by enthusiasts, who will pay almost $200 for one secondhand!
Barbie and the Rockers – $196
Big hair rock bands were a big part of the 80s, so it makes sense that Mattel jumped on the trend. Barbie and the Rockers could sing, dance and play instruments, and each one was sold with its own cassette tape that unfortunately had a tendency to unravel. These 1986 dolls were a huge hit, and have a secondhand resale price of almost $200.
Western Barbie – $181
Some Barbies age gracefully, but others are less lucky. 1980’s Western Barbie had a winking eye that could be activated via a button on her back, which originally lent the doll a cheeky and flirty air. Unfortunately, most secondhand Western Barbies have a bad lazy eye and big southern hair that’s close to god no longer, leading to a secondhand resale price of around $180.
Vacation Sensation Barbie – $180
Vacation Sensation Barbie, released in 1986, allows you to indulge in the fantasy of… packing for a holiday! This doll comes with three pieces of luggage and some changes of clothes, so you can fold and unfold to your heart’s content. An in-the-box example of this Barbie with all the accessories intact will cost you $180 though, which could go towards a real vacation.
Angel Face Barbie – $178
Looking at just her head and shoulders, you might think 1982’s Angel Face Barbie is a Victorian governess, with a lace blouse and traditional broach. However, this doll’s full outfit includes a voluminous pink poodle skirt, making it clear that she’s more inspired by the 50s, while her minimal makeup explains the ‘Angel Face’ moniker. Secondhand, she generally fetches around $175.
Magic Moves Barbie – $167
1985’s Magic Moves Barbie does is a full-on supermodel doll, with a switch on her back that can be pushed in order to allow her to switch poses, seemingly all by herself. Her long platinum hair, halterneck bodysuit and luxurious fur-lined cape have made her a fan-favorite among the Superstar Barbies, which has led to a resale price of almost $170.
Barbie Dream Furniture Bath – $148
When you really think about it, the people behind Mattel are geniuses, somehow convincing generations of parents to buy hundreds of identical blonde dolls wearing different outfits. Similarly, you might think the Barbie Dream House would have all the furniture you could ever need, but no. Items like the Barbie Luxury Bathtub are still hugely coveted by collectors, often fetching as much as $150 secondhand.
Day to Night Barbie – $149
If you grew up reading fashion magazines, you probably thought that adulthood would be filled with situations that required you to dress “from day to night.” Day to Night Barbie wears a pink double-breasted suit and carries a briefcase during office hours, but also has a flashy pink dress complete with a tulle skirt ready to go. She’ll set you back nearly $150 – briefcase included.
Wedding Fantasy Barbie – $149
Lots of children grow up acting out their dream wedding with dolls, pets or even family members, so it should surprise no one to know that 1989’s Wedding Fantasy Barbie was an instant bestseller. Not only that, but her intricate tulle gown and veil have made her an enduring favorite among collectors, leading to a resale price that sits consistently around $150.
Easy-On Ballerina Barbie -$143
Barbie is popular with children of all ages, but for younger kids the shoes, necklaces and handbags present a choking hazard, plus the clothes often have fastenings or openings that are too finicky for toddlers. The Easy On-Barbies were designed to be easier to undress and dress, and the most popular was the 1988 Ballerina Barbie, which has a current secondhand price of almost $150!
Enchanted Evening Barbie – $135
Enchanted Evening Barbie doesn’t look at all like any of the other dolls on this list, but she was indeed released in the 1980s as a tribute to the more delicate, nostalgic designs and classy formalwear. of the earliest Barbie dolls. Despite the uniqueness of this doll, collectors seem to prefer simply seeking out original-era vintage Barbies, resulting in a resale price of just $135.
Horse Lovin’ Barbie – $124
Barbie’s had hundreds of hobbies over the years, so of course she has tried horse riding once or twice. Horse Lovin’ Barbie was first released in 1982 and was so popular that she was rereleased multiple times, with the original iteration of course remaining the most valuable. Want to add this plaid and cowhide-clad Barbie to your collection? You’ll need to shell out almost $125.
Fashion Jeans Barbie – $118
At first glance, skinny jeans and pink cowboy boots might seem more at home in the early 2000s, yet 1981’s Fashion Jeans Barbie rocks both, along with a fluffy pink sweater that definitely seems like something Molly Ringwald would wear. While 1982 Fashion Jeans Barbies are fairly easy to source, finding an original 1981 iteration is much harder and will set you back nearly $120.
Sun Gold Malibu Barbie – $98
There’s no denying that Malibu Barbie is one of Mattel’s most iconic products. Just over a decade after the original Malibu Barbie hit shelves in 1971, the Sun Gold Malibu Barbie was released in 1983. This Barbie sports a silver and gold checkerboard swimsuit with a backless, halter neck design, and usually fetches around $100 on the resale market.
Sears Lilac and Lovely Barbie – $91
Many special edition Barbies have a special place in the hearts and on the shelves of collectors, including the Lilac and Lovely Barbie. Released in 1987, this Barbie doll was a Sears exclusive, and could only be purchased at the store. Since she was a promotional doll, many enthusiasts believe her clothes are of a higher quality, leading to a resale price of over $90.
American Beauties Mardi Gras Barbie – $83
In the late 80s, Mattel released the American Beauties collection in collaboration with legendary toy store FOA Schwarz. The most glamorous of them all is Mardi Gras Barbie. Released in 1987, this doll comes complete with a glittering masquerade mask and purple polka dot parade outfit. Despite the beautiful look and limited edition status though, this Barbie rarely fetches prices above $80 at auction.
Fashion Play Barbie – $83
Fashion Play Barbie might have the most generic name of any Barbie doll released in the 80s, but her look is pretty unique. She wears a simple halterneck top with an oversized bow, and a classic red midi skirt with a tropical print. Unfortunately, simple elegance doesn’t seem to be what collectors are in the market for, as this doll usually fetches around $85 secondhand.
Star Dreams Barbie – $79
This 1987 Star Dreams Barbie’s outfit is basically identical to the 1988 Olympic Skating Star Barbie, other than the fact that she wears a full-length white tulle skirt. As for which doll has won the popularity contest as far as collectors go, the numbers speak for themselves, and Olympic Skating Star Barbie is the one skating away with a gold medal.
Superstar Barbie – $71
The Superstar Era Barbies are favored by many collectors, but not all of them can shine so brightly, as the simply-named Superstar Barbie can attest. This bedraggled doll has a pink fur boa, giant tulle skirt and shimmering bodice, but all three elements are on the generic side. Maybe that’s why she usually commands less than $80 on the secondhand market.
Barbie Dream Store – $68
Barbie’s Dream House isn’t the only 80s playset that enthusiasts want to add to their collection. In 1982, Mattel released the Barbie Dream Store Make-up Centre, a boutique make-up counter featuring tiny vanity mirrors, eyeshadow pots and lipstick tubes that both Barbie and the child playing with her could use. Secondhand, this set fetches almost $70, which is the price of four non-plastic lipsticks.
Tennis Barbie – $64
1986’s Tennis Barbie is another less cherished doll, owing to her slightly lacking design. Firstly, she doesn’t come with a tennis racket; secondly, the collar and vest combo she is wearing is far more evocative of a golf outfit than a tennis one. As a result, if you’d like to add Tennis Barbie to your collection, you’ll only need to pay $64.
Garden Party Barbie – $37
If you were going to a summer garden party, what would you wear? Probably something simple and floaty, in a light color and with a delicate floral print. However, 1988’s Garden Party Barbie chooses a lurid purple number with huge puff sleeves and giant tulle skirt. These odd choices might explain why the secondhand price for this doll sits at only $37.
Beach Blast Barbie – $91
1989’s Beach Blast Barbie isn’t the only swimwear Barbie around, but her hot pink bikini, wet-effect hair and deep tan help her stand apart. She was released alongside equivalent Christie, Ken, Miko, Skipper, Steven and Teresa dolls, making Beach Blast one of the most extensively released lines. This ubiquity has somewhat dampened this Barbie’s resale price, as it sits at a tepid $91.
Benefit Performance Barbie – $297
Benefit Performance Barbie was released in 1988, but looks like she’s from a different era entirely. Released as a special edition porcelain doll in grand and romantic eveningwear, this Barbie is styled after the porcelain dolls that began Mattel’s journey decades ago. She would stand out on any Barbie collector’s shelf, hence her resale price sits at a very healthy $297.
Toys R Us Show and Ride Barbie – $197
Show and Ride Barbie was released in 1988 as a Toys R Us exclusive, and shows Barbie all dressed up and ready to compete in a dressage tournament. Unfortunately, no horse or whip were included, so kids wanting to act out Barbie competing in the Olympics would need a stash of My Little Ponies on hand. Her resale price sits at almost $200.
Frills and Fantasy Barbie – $90
Frills and Fantasy Barbie hit shelves in 1988, but only in Walmart. The doll came with tulle sleeves and white lace appliques, and she also had a full skirt ideal for swooping around formal occasions. Unfortunately, this Barbie’s budget nature has extended into her secondhand value, as her resale price never seems to reach any higher than about $95.
Happy Birthday Barbie – $74
Mattel has released numerous birthday-themed Barbie dolls over the years. 1981’s Happy Birthday Barbie is maybe the most modest, featuring a tiered halterneck dress with numerous panels of pastel-colored tulle, in addition to pale blue and pink flowers. Unfortunately, this lowkey and delicate look seems not to have captured the imagination of enthusiasts, as Happy Birthday Barbie’s resale price sits at a disappointingly low $74.
Dream Date Barbie – $198
A couple of Dream Date Barbies have been released over the years. The favorite among fans is the 1982 pink and purple ruffled jacket with the sequin top, even if it’s impossible to imagine anyone wearing such a thing to dinner and a movie. When kept in good condition, this Barbie is highly regarded amongst collectors, and so often sells secondhand for around $200.
Safari Barbie – $73
Safari Barbie is such an obvious concept that you’d be forgiven for thinking more iterations of it would exist, yet only one hit shelves in the 80s. Rather than being decked out in the khaki tones you might expect, Safari Barbie instead wears an all-white onesie with a gold belt, and a thin tan jacket over top. She usually only fetches around $75 at auction.
Sea Lovin’ Barbie – $188
A maritime-themed collectable, Sea Lovin’ Barbie has long been a fan favorite, with her brightly colored and detailed outfit complete with silver metallic panels. This 1984 doll has a high resale price of $188 – so if you find her at a garage sale or in the back of a secondhand store, then it’s probably worth the investment.
Le Nouveau Theatre de la Mode Barbie – $379
Most Barbies are styled to have a fresh and youthful look, but the special edition Le Nouveau Theatre de la Mode Barbie was designed to have a more mature and modest style, hence the black gown and gold statement detailing. This departure from the usual Barbie formula has secured this doll’s popularity and place in the collector’s market, hence the whopping resale price of $379.
Cool Times Rocker Barbie – $262
The Barbie and the Rockers wasn’t the only rock-themed 80s Barbie. Check out 1986’s Cool Times Rocker Barbie, with a pink satin dress over a white sparkly crop top. This Barbie is fairly hard to find on the secondhand market, hence the higher-than-average resale price of around $260. For that price, you could probably buy a couple of concert tickets to an actual rock show.
Gift Giving Barbie – $184
Gift Giving Barbie is such a popular concept that two versions of this doll were released in the 80s alone. Of the two, the Barbie with the iridescent lilac dress is the clear favorite among enthusiasts, owing to its delicate color palette and subtle eye make-up. Gift Giving Barbie has a comfortable resale price of around $185, which is, of course, a gift in itself.
Original Barbie – $27,450
The original Barbie doll was released in 1959, sporting blonde hair, blue eyeshadow, red lips, gold hoops and a striped swimsuit. If you have a first-edition Barbie with holes in the feet, you might be able to sell it for up to $27,450. However, later editions can still fetch a few thousand on eBay.
Career Girl Barbie – $500
In addition to being a vintage collectible, the Career Girl Barbie was a Japan-exclusive doll, making it even more popular with collectors around the world. If you ever find yourself ready to say goodbye to your high-value Barbie, you might be able to make a couple of hundred dollars by selling her on eBay.
Francie Barbie – $1,500
In the 1960s, Mattel released the first Black Barbie doll, Francie. Unfortunately, it did not have any typical African American features because it was made from the same mould as the original Caucasian Barbie doll. Because there were so few of these dolls made, you rarely see one and if you do, it’ll cost you over a grand.
Commuter Set Barbie – $100
This Barbie may not be worth thousands, but you could still get a good price for it, and there’s a chance you have one of these collecting dust at home. The Commuter Set Barbie was first introduced in 1998 as a reproduction of the original 1960s Commuter Set. A new Commuter Set Barbie can be purchased or sold for around $100.
Karl Lagerfeld Barbie – $6,000
The Karl Lagerfeld Barbie, inspired by the legendary fashion designer who sadly died in 2019, comes adorned in a black tuxedo suit, boots and sunglasses. Designed by Robert Best for Karl Lagerfeld’s Platinum Label, the accessories include a purse and fingerless gloves. This doll, in its original packaging, could sell for up to $6,000.
City Smart Silkstone Barbie – $2,000
This 1940s-inspired doll was made in a limited run of 600, and her classic suit and heels make her one of the most sought-after dolls in Barbie history. The doll was designed by Robert Best and released in 2003. If this doll has been well taken care of, it could earn you $2,000 if sold at auction.
Maiko Barbie $500
Mattel has released many dolls that celebrate the beauty and fashion of cultures from around the world. From 2006 comes this Japanese Maiko Barbie, who celebrates the traditional clothing and hairstyles of geishas. It’s hard to find a Barbie that looks as realistic as the Maiko Barbie. Only 6,400 of them were made worldwide.
Midnight Tuxedo Barbie – $1,000
This limited-edition Midnight Tuxedo Barbie doll, who wears a floor-length black gown with a matching stole, is sure to steal the spotlight in any collection. She is one of the Official Barbie Collector Club’s exclusives, which means she is a rare doll that sells for about $1,000.
Miss Barbie – $300
This Barbie was the first to feature bendable legs and eyes that opened and closed. She was dressed in a pink swim cap and also came with three wigs (blonde, brunette, or redhead.) If you see one of these, don’t let it get away; they can sell for around $300.
Tokidoki Barbie – $600
This Barbie doll is an anime-inspired take on the classic Barbie, complete with Tokidoki-themed accessories. Barbie collectors went wild over the original Tokidoki Barbie, who was released with a pink bob and tattoos. If you have $600 to spare, she could be yours!
Pink Splendor Barbie – $350
The 1996 Pink Splendor Barbie comes complete with a tall coiffure and a full pink gown. The Pink Splendor Barbie had one of the highest retail prices for any Barbie doll. The doll cost $900 when it came out in 1996, but today you can sell it for between $300 and $400.
Barbie in Atlanta – $3500
At the 1998 National Barbie Doll Convention in Atlanta, a special doll was created. This doll, to be presented as a gift to attendees at the convention, was labelled “a date with Barbie in Atlanta.” The standard edition with a black dress is worth $200-$300. However, the one with a white dress is rare and valued at an eye-watering $3,500.
Chicago Cubs Barbie – $750
In 1999 Barbie was made into a New York Yankees, Los Angeles Dodgers and Chicago Cubs baseball player. However, the Chicago Cubs version is by far the most valuable. When the Cubs won their first World Series in more than a century, fans wanting to commemorate the fine occasion scooped up Cubs Barbie dolls. You can still catch her for $750 on eBay.
Deluxe Quick Curl Barbie – $200
Another one of Barbie’s classic 1970s looks is the Deluxe Quick Curl Barbie Doll, featuring hair that curled in just seconds. One of these dolls can still sell for a few hundred dollars on eBay, and you can get even more if you have one that’s still in mint condition.
Summer Splendor Barbie – $110
The Summer Splendor Barbie was first released in 1997. She’s a Barbie doll that’s ready for summer with her yellow dress and floral accessories. Although it is not as elaborate as some other Barbie dolls, an unopened doll still might be worth up to $110 if it’s in good condition.
Holiday Caroler Barbie – $100
This porcelain Barbie was released in 1996, and she looks adorable in her fur-trimmed green dress. This Barbie is made of porcelain, and it’s a limited edition – which means if you want one, you’ll have to pay up to $100!
Royal Splendor Barbie – $225
This porcelain Barbie doll was created in 1993, and she wears a long-sleeved gown in bright purple that makes her look like royalty. The doll was part of a limited edition collection of porcelain dolls and her dress has such intricate embroidery that she can fetch up to $225 today.
Yuletide Romance Barbie – $55
This Barbie doll was released in 1996 as a collector’s edition and is modelled after a Hallmark card. The holiday-themed doll comes with two Barbie-size greeting cards, a brush, and a stand to display her on. She’s worth up to $55 today, and remains popular among Barbie collectors.
Jewelled Splendor Barbie – $100
This Barbie doll was released in 1996 as part of the FAO Schwarz Floral Signature Collection. The Jeweled Splendor Barbie doll has a crown across the top of her hair and jewels on her dress that match, adding a colourful accent to the black dress. Collectors will pay as much as $100 for this doll, as it’s one of the most sought-after in the collection.
Dance Moves Barbie – $100
In 1994, Mattel released Dance Moves Barbie, which was designed to allow kids to pose the doll in different dance moves. The doll had special joints in her arms and legs that allowed her limbs to be moved into various positions. Midge, Barbie’s best friend and a rare Dance Moves doll, can be worth as much as $100.
