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.
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 Dolls | Created By | Price | Launch Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barbie by Stefano Canturi | Stefano Canturi | $302,500 | 2010 |
| Barbie & the Diamond Castle Promo Doll | Mattel | $94,800 | 2008 |
| De Beers 40th Anniversary Barbie | De Beers | $85,000 | 1999 |
| #1 Ponytail Barbie (Original Barbie) | Mattel | $27,450 | 1959 |
| Barbie in ‘Midnight Red’ | Mattel | $17,065 | 1965 |
| Pink Diamond Barbie | The Blond, Mattel | $15,000 | 2013 |
| Gala Abend Barbie | Mattel | $13,650 | 1965 |
| Eastern Parade Vintage Barbie #2 Ponytail | Mattel | $10,140 | 1960s |
| Barbie Loves Improvers Island Steel Promotion | Paco Rabanne, Mattel | $9,999 | 1968 |
| Signed Pillow Talk Barbie Set | Mattel | $7,680 | 1960s |
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
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
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
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)
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’
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
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
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
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
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
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:-
| Rank | Barbie Doll | Created By | Price | Launch Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 11 | Lorraine Schwartz Barbie | Lorraine Schwartz | $7,500 | 2010 |
| 12 | Karl Lagerfeld Barbie | Karl Lagerfeld, Mattel | $6,000 | 2014 |
| 13 | Gran Via Silkstone Barbie (1920s) | Mattel | $5,000 | 2021 |
| 14 | Carol Spencer Holiday Barbie | Mattel | $5,000 | 1994 |
| 15 | Aqua Queen of the Prom Barbie | Mattel | $5,000 | 2001 |
| 16 | Vintage Mattel Black Francie Barbie | Mattel | $5,000 | 1960s |
| 17 | Barbie Round the Clock (1964) | Mattel | $4,999 | 1964 |
| 18 | Japanese Exclusive Barbie Spanish Ball Gown (dress only) | Mattel | $4,500 | – |
| 19 | Commuter Set Barbie (1998) | Mattel | $4,406 | 1998 |
| 20 | German Bild Lilli Hausser Barbie | Hauser | $3,999.99 | 1950s-1960s |
| 21 | Twist N Turn Japanese Exclusive Vintage Barbie | Mattel | $3,562.13 | 1968 |
| 22 | American Girl Barbie | Mattel | $3,500 | 1966 |
| 23 | German Bild Lilli Barbie Clone Doll | Mattel | $3,100 | 1950s-1960s |
| 24 | Happy Holidays, Barbie (signed by Ruth Handler) | Mattel | $3,000 | 1988 |
| 25 | High Color Blonde Ponytail Barbie With Blue Eyeliner | Mattel | $3,000 | 1960 |
| 26 | Plantation Belle Barbie | Mattel | $2,999 | – |
| 27 | City Smart Silkstone Barbie | Mattel | $2,995 | 2003 |
| 28 | Superstar Valerie Barbie | Cipsa (Mexico) | $2,900 | 1978 |
| 29 | Vintage Parisienne Barbie | Mattel | $2,899.99 | 1959 |
| 30 | Brunette Bubble Cut Barbie | Mattel | $2,750 | 1961 |
| 31 | Barbie Japanese Exclusive Pink Silhouette | Mattel | $2,687 | – |
| 32 | Fabulous 1920s Silkstone Barbie | Mattel | $2,500 | 2021 |
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.
The financial commitment to Barbie collecting can be significant, with one collector saying, “No one will spend $10,000 for this doll.”
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
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).
Some of the most valuable Barbie dolls from the 1990s include the Totally Hair Barbie, Marie Antoinette Barbie, and Sweet Dreams Barbie.
The original 1959 #1 Barbie doll was worth up to $27,450 due to its excellent condition.
