A ‘superb’ collection of Barbie dolls – massed over decades – are set for auction thanks to a man who spent his life working in the toy trade.
Over the course of 30 years he gathered a large quantity of Barbie fashion/designer dolls including many samples, boxed and unused. And thanks to the popularity of the new Barbie film interest is expected to be strong when they go under the hammer at Hansons Auctioneers.
Hot lots include a Giorgio Armani Barbie, Couture Barbie, special Catherine and William wedding dolls, Barbie in a gown designed by Alexander McQueen gown and a rare Fashion Model Barbie.
Janet Rawnsley doll valuer at Hansons Auctioneers, said: “It really is a superb collection. It is often assumed that early Barbie dolls are the most desired but high quality collector pieces have sparked a new hobby due to their outstanding quality. These are not not play things, they are investment items.
“The Barbie film has sent the media world into a spin and inspired a new generation of fans from the none-collecting world. They will be keen to bid on these special pieces.
Hansons will be offering the Barbie doll collection across two sales – the August 16 Bargain Hunt Auction and the September 19 Fine Dolls, Fashion & Textiles Auction.
Many will strut their stuff in a special Fashion Section in the August 16 sale. It will include post-war designer clothing, jewellery and vintage designer handbags from Louis Vuitton and Chopard as well as stylish Barbies.
Catalogues are published online seven to nine days prior to sale days at www.hansonslive.co.uk
Entries are invited for regular toy sales. To find out more, or to arrange a free doll or teddy bear valuation, email: [email protected]
