Everyone’s seeing pink as “Barbie” takes over theaters, but collectors and resellers of the famed dolls are thinking green. The interest in Mattel’s flagship doll has been high ever since the movie promotion took off, according to pop culture expert and collector Joel Magee. As a frequent guest on “Pawn Stars,” Magee has insights into the toy industry and the current demand for Barbie.
Magee explains that fans don’t just want to watch the movie, they want to own a piece of the Barbie phenomenon for themselves. The popularity of the movie has sparked interest in collecting Barbie dolls, especially rare editions that have been out of production for years. Magee predicts that some of these retired dolls will make their way onto auction blocks, commanding high prices from avid collectors.
One particular doll that collectors are after is the original 1959 Barbie doll. Debuting in the ’50s, this vintage doll has become highly sought after. In recent months, Barbies that were previously selling for $100 are now being marked up to around $150. However, the 1959 debut doll is experiencing incredible value appreciation, with prices ranging from $15,000 to $20,000 in today’s market.
Magee finds it fascinating that a toy introduced over six decades ago still holds immense popularity. As someone who has been in the toy collecting business for 30 years, he appreciates the enduring appeal of Barbie and other vintage toys. His experience and knowledge have earned him the nickname “The Toy Scout.”
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Besides his expertise in Barbie, Magee’s recent involvement in a massive Disneyland auction with Van Eaton Galleries showcases his passion for collecting and selling vintage toys and collectibles. Over 1,400 theme park items from the past were part of the auction, further emphasizing Magee’s expertise and the demand for nostalgic memorabilia.
To further illustrate the Barbie craze, TMZ.com has shared images and videos related to the doll and the collector’s market. They have included photos of movie promotions featuring the iconic doll and vintage Barbie dolls from different eras. The embedded videos provide additional context and visuals for readers interested in the topic.
In conclusion, the release of the “Barbie” movie has ignited a renewed interest in collecting Barbie dolls, especially rare and vintage editions. The value of these dolls has skyrocketed, with price markups seen even on dolls that were previously considered affordable. Collectors and resellers are eager to capitalize on the Barbie craze, leading to increasing auction prices for rare dolls like the original 1959 Barbie. Joel Magee, a renowned pop culture expert and collector, has provided valuable insights into the current Barbie market and predicts that more rare editions will surface in auctions. This phenomenon highlights the enduring appeal of Barbie and the inherent value of nostalgic toys in the collector’s market.
