Grading/Value
Dolls
Why collect dolls?
You may have had people ask you this question, and it is difficult to put
into words, but in your heart you know why. These little people look
back at you with love and remind you of all that is good in people. This
is the main reason most people collect, "A true love of dolls".
Some people collect for monetary benefit alone. Collectors
of this nature are rare, but you can spot them instantly. These people
I’ve encountered over the years seem somewhat distant and unfriendly, their
eyes don’t light up with the joy of finding a unique doll. For the
most part, doll collectors are the type of people who will treat their
dolls as additions to the family. They truly love dolls. As
a serious collector you must be as knowledgeable as you can. This
not only enables you to find better dolls, but will also increase your
love of collecting. This is where the knowledge of grading/value
of dolls must be pursued. Both aspects work as one, whether it be
a German or French reproduction, or a genuine antique, a number of things
add to the value of the doll. Quality of work and materials is of
the utmost importance, along with uniqueness of the original artist’s portrayal.
These things all work as one in determining the value of a doll.
Spotting a valuable doll
is a learned attribute. How serious about doll collecting are
you? Read some of the many resource materials available today in
the area of antique dolls, and combine that knowledge with actively viewing
antique dolls through private collections, museums and antique shops.
Within a short period of time and a little effort, you will gain confidence
in your doll collecting. Remember, as you are trying to find antique
dolls, it is not how little you pay, but the quality of the doll.
Quality comes with price. Don’t cheat yourself out of the enjoyment
of owning beautiful antique dolls, it will show in the end result of the
collection. I’ve never seen a collector regret buying a beautiful
doll to add to their collection.
I’ve had many people ask
me over the years, how did you know that? To be good at grading and
valuing dolls, start with 
doll
blue books. There are many on the market to date, and some are
better than others. To help you understand how these books can help
you, you must read the prefaces of these books. The author explains
their ideas on determining values. This is the most important aspect
of using these publications. These books are meant to be "guides",
by using common sense and good judgement and the information in blue books,
you will be able to value the dolls. If you have an original antique
doll in good condition with lots of charm, the doll will sell itself!
Unfortunately, for a buyer, it will demand a higher price. For example,
many doll blue books give values for "mint" dolls. This means that
the doll is in its original condition, any damage to the doll reduces the
value. Use the values in the books as starting points. Damage
reduces the value, but exceptional qualities can add to the value. If restoration
has occurred, ask yourself these questions before determining a value.
Was it done correctly by using original techniques and materials?
If clothing was reproduced, were old fabrics and laces used? Were
the correct fashions of the day incorporated into the clothing? Was the
restoration appropriate? Was the integrity of the doll maintained?
Many questions must be asked in order to grade/value these wonderful little
treasures from the past.
Good luck in your doll collecting, remember
to have fun and share your enjoyment and love of dolls with others.
Gary Sowatzka,
Master Doll Doctor and Artist
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