Chatty Cathy is a talking doll introduced in 1959. Children adored Chatty Cathy because her features are just like those of a real girl. She even has a chubby belly and buck teeth. The original Cathy spoke 11 phrases and later editions spoke 18 phrases. June Foray of 'Rocky and Bullwinkle' and Maureen McCormack of 'The Brady Bunch' both performed the voice of Chatty Cathy. To this day, talkative people are labeled Chatty Cathys. This is a testament to the lasting popularity of this treasured doll.

There are five Chatty Cathy body types that vary in value. The oldest dolls are not the most valuable. The first and second edition dolls are most common and worth the least, especially the blond dolls. African American, foreign and redheaded Chatty Cathys are the most valuable. Very few of these dolls were produced and even fewer still exist in good condition.

Many collectors are reluctant to clean a Chatty Cathy for fear of ruining the voice box, but the doll can be maintained without ruin. As with all vintage dolls, a delicate dishwashing soap or baby shampoo will do nicely to wipe away stains. Chatty Cathy should not be immersed in water or exposed to a lot of moisture because that may ruin the talking mechanism. Since Chatty Cathy is made of a vinyl body, a damp cloth is a safe bet for removing stains.

Anyone who intends to collect Chatty Cathys should take the time to learn about the many versions of the doll. Not all versions are valuable and it is worthwhile to be knowledgeable of fair market cost. Also, many Chatty Cathy dolls are restored or altered in a way that is not in keeping with the doll's original features. Some sellers will program Cathy to speak a new phrase and pass the doll off as a rarity. Don't be fooled. There are plenty of authentic Chatty Cathys on the market that are worthwhile investments.