After its release in 1992, the Totally Hair Barbie became the highest-selling Barbie doll ever, with 10 million dolls sold worldwide. While the launch was successful as the highest-selling doll, it wasn’t the most expensive doll, naturally.

The world’s most expensive Barbie doll is the one by Stefano Canturi, which was sold at auction in 2010 for a staggering $302,500. Such Barbies are rare and often attract premium price tags. In this guide, I will discuss 30 such priciest Barbie collectibles. 

I will also share the general audience’s views about these play dates and help you understand whether your Barbies are totally worth it if you possess any of these!

What Is The Most Expensive Doll In The World?

The world’s most expensive doll is not a Barbie but a creation called L’Oiseleur “The Bird Trainer,” which has a staggering worth of $6.25 million.

However, when it comes to Barbie dolls specifically, the most expensive one ever sold at auction is the Barbie by Stefano Canturi, which fetched an impressive $302,500 in 2010. 

Most Expensive Barbie Dolls
Source: MOSAIC Lille

This Barbie doll, designed by renowned Australian jeweler Stefano Canturi, includes:-

  • Rare 1-carat pink diamond 
  • 3 carats of white diamonds

Watch the making of this amazing piece that underscores Barbie’s immense value and desirability as a highly coveted collector’s item.

Top 10 Most Expensive Barbie Dolls

Since 1959, Barbie dolls have become a significant part of pop culture and inspired countless collectors worldwide. 

These dolls, created by various designers and released in different years, have impressive prices due to their rarity, condition, and historical significance. 

Here’s a list of the top 10 most expensive Barbie dolls:-

Barbie DollsCreated ByPriceLaunch Year
Barbie by Stefano CanturiStefano Canturi$302,5002010
Barbie & the Diamond Castle Promo DollMattel$94,8002008
De Beers 40th Anniversary BarbieDe Beers$85,0001999
#1 Ponytail Barbie (Original Barbie)Mattel$27,4501959
Barbie in ‘Midnight Red’Mattel$17,0651965
Pink Diamond BarbieThe Blond, Mattel$15,0002013
Gala Abend BarbieMattel$13,6501965
Eastern Parade Vintage Barbie #2 PonytailMattel$10,1401960s
Barbie Loves Improvers Island Steel PromotionPaco Rabanne, Mattel$9,9991968
Signed Pillow Talk Barbie SetMattel$7,6801960s

Let us go through the details of why these top 10 dolls are so expensive, be it through their designers and how they were designed:-

1. Barbie By Stefano Canturi

Barbie By Stefano Canturi
Source: BarbiePedia

This record-breaking $302,500 Barbie was designed by renowned Australian jeweler Stefano Canturi. It is the most expensive Barbie doll ever sold, consisting of a 1-carat rare pink diamond and 3 carats of white diamonds.

2. Barbie & The Diamond Castle Promo Doll

Barbie & The Diamond Castle Promo Doll
Source: Amazon

Inspired by the 2008 Barbie film “Barbie & the Diamond Castle,” this $94,800 doll is dressed in a gown covered with 318 diamonds. 

It showcases Barbie’s ability to inspire high-end collaborations.

3. De Beers 40th Anniversary Barbie

De Beers 40th Anniversary Barbie
Source: LUXUO

Released in 1999 for Barbie’s 40th birthday, this $85,000 doll features a sheer skirt and gold bikini top. It is decorated with 160 small diamonds and white gold accessories.

4. #1 Ponytail Barbie (Original Barbie)

#1 Ponytail Barbie (Original Barbie)
Source: Pinterest

The first-ever Barbie doll from 1959, this $27,450 classic features Barbie’s signature ponytail hairstyle, bold makeup, and black-and-white zebra-striped swimsuit, making it a holy grail for collectors.

5. Barbie In ‘Midnight Red’

Barbie In 'Midnight Red'
Source: Pinterest

Part of the Color Magic series, this $17,065 Barbie doll features hair that changes from Midnight Black to Ruby Red and exudes vintage Barbies’ innovative design and collectability.

6. Pink Diamond Barbie

Pink Diamond Barbie
Source: Amazon

A one-of-a-kind $15,000 Barbie created by designer duo The Blonds, this doll pays homage to Barbie’s iconic look with a bold, glamorous aesthetic.

7. Gala Abend Barbie

Gala Abend Barbie

When released in 1965, the $13,650 Barbie doll was highly coveted for her brunette hair, long coat, matching dress, and gloves. It is also considered a true vintage fashion statement.

8. Eastern Parade Vintage Barbie #2 Ponytail

Eastern Parade Vintage Barbie #2 Ponytail
Source: FamilyMinded

Similar to the #1 Ponytail Barbie, the $10,140 doll features the signature ponytail hairstyle but without the holes in her feet.

9. Barbie Loves Improvers Island Steel Promotion

Barbie Loves Improvers Island Steel Promotion
Source: eBay

Extremely limited to only a few dolls worldwide, this $9,999 Barbie was part of a special promotional set. It featured a pink two-piece swimsuit and pink ribbon in her hair.

10. Signed Pillow Talk Barbie Set

Signed Pillow Talk Barbie Set
Source: Bridgeman Images

This $7,680 set includes two Barbies depicting the characters from the classic 1959 film “Pillow Talk,” signed by actress Doris Day, making it a unique collector’s item.

Other Expensive Barbie Dolls – Additional 22!

Here is the table for more such expensive Barbie dolls, costing $7500 a piece and less:-

RankBarbie DollCreated ByPriceLaunch Year
11Lorraine Schwartz BarbieLorraine Schwartz$7,5002010
12Karl Lagerfeld BarbieKarl Lagerfeld, Mattel$6,0002014
13Gran Via Silkstone Barbie (1920s)Mattel$5,0002021
14Carol Spencer Holiday BarbieMattel$5,0001994
15Aqua Queen of the Prom BarbieMattel$5,0002001
16Vintage Mattel Black Francie BarbieMattel$5,0001960s
17Barbie Round the Clock (1964)Mattel$4,9991964
18Japanese Exclusive Barbie Spanish Ball Gown (dress only)Mattel$4,500
19Commuter Set Barbie (1998)Mattel$4,4061998
20German Bild Lilli Hausser BarbieHauser$3,999.991950s-1960s
21Twist N Turn Japanese Exclusive Vintage BarbieMattel$3,562.131968
22American Girl BarbieMattel$3,5001966
23German Bild Lilli Barbie Clone DollMattel$3,1001950s-1960s
24Happy Holidays, Barbie (signed by Ruth Handler)Mattel$3,0001988
25High Color Blonde Ponytail Barbie With Blue EyelinerMattel$3,0001960
26Plantation Belle BarbieMattel$2,999
27City Smart Silkstone BarbieMattel$2,9952003
28Superstar Valerie BarbieCipsa (Mexico)$2,9001978
29Vintage Parisienne BarbieMattel$2,899.991959
30Brunette Bubble Cut BarbieMattel$2,7501961
31Barbie Japanese Exclusive Pink SilhouetteMattel$2,687
32Fabulous 1920s Silkstone BarbieMattel$2,5002021

Users’ Thoughts On The Most Expensive Barbies

Barbie doll collecting is a passion ranging from casual interest to serious investment. 

One collector on Reddit shared their shock at encountering a Barbie doll listed for $10,000, remarking that they thought the $600-$1,000 range was expensive. 

Reddit Comment On Barbie Doll
Source: Reddit

The financial commitment to Barbie collecting can be significant, with one collector saying, “No one will spend $10,000 for this doll.”

Reddit Comment For A Barbie Doll
Source: Reddit

These testimonials highlight the diverse experiences and perspectives within the Barbie collecting community. 

How Do I Know If My Barbie Is Worth The Money?

The value of a Barbie doll can be determined by factors such as: 

  • Rarity
  • Condition
  • Demand. 

To better understand your Barbie’s potential value, you can utilize online resources like – BarbieDB.com. This tool allows you to search for your specific doll model, compare it to similar sold listings, and get a general idea of its current market value. 

Consulting with Barbie enthusiasts and collectors in your area can also provide valuable insights into your particular doll.

Related Read:

Conclusion: Stefano Canturi’s Barbie Is The Most Expensive Barbie!

From the iconic Stefano Canturi Barbie valued at $302,500 to the original 1959 #1 Ponytail Barbie worth $27,450, these priceless Barbie collectibles have captivated enthusiasts worldwide. 

If you are curious about the top three expensive dolls, here’s my recap:-

  • Barbie by Stefano Canturi: $302,500
  • Barbie & the Diamond Castle Promo Doll: $94,800
  • De Beers 40th Anniversary Barbie: $85,000

Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just curious about your childhood toys, start researching your Barbies today and see if you have the makings of an incredible investment!

FAQs

What are the five most expensive Barbie dolls? 

The five most expensive Barbie dolls are Barbie by Stefano Canturi ($302,500), Barbie & the Diamond Castle Promo Doll ($94,800), De Beers 40th Anniversary Barbie ($85,000), #1 Ponytail Barbie ($27,450), and Barbie in ‘Midnight Red’ ($17,065).

What are the most valuable Barbies from the 90s? 

Some of the most valuable Barbie dolls from the 1990s include the Totally Hair Barbie, Marie Antoinette Barbie, and Sweet Dreams Barbie. 

How much is the #1 Barbie worth? 

The original 1959 #1 Barbie doll was worth up to $27,450 due to its excellent condition.

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