Vintage

If it hadn't been for Ruth Handler and her special creation in 1959, the Barbie doll never would have been invented. If it hadn't been for her daughter, Barbara, this famous doll could have a completely different name. Thankfully, though, for children and doll collectors everywhere, Barbie premiered at the American Toy Fair in New York City in 1959. She was meant to be a teenage fashion doll.Since that time, Barbie has had over 80 careers. She has been a presidential candidate, a rock star, an astronaut, a gymnast, a surgeon and a chef to name a few. The Barbie that outdid all the other Barbies, however, came out in 1992. She had hair down to her toes and was aptly named 'Totally Hair Barbie.' Ken, whose last name happens to be Carson, officially came onto the scene as Barbie's boyfriend in 1961. That same year, Barbie was introduced to the European market. Barbie and Ken dated fairly successfully for 43 years. However, on February 12, 2004 (two days before Valentine's Day!), Mattel announced that Barbie and Ken had 'decided to spend some time apart.'Barbie CollectionsFor Barbie collectors, mint-condition vintage Barbies are highly sought after. They are put in categories ranging from C1 to C10. The best dolls are C10s. These are in perfect condition--as if they were bought that day. They have no flaws, are in their original packaging, and have all their original accessories and clothes also in perfect condition. As flaws begin to pop up, the ranking of the Barbie goes down.