Doll Collecting on a Budget

You don't have to spend a ton of money on collecting dolls.  There are, of course, different types of doll collectors, but unless your goal is to only purchase the most exclusive and/or rare dolls you can find, there is not any reason that you can't find a nice collectible doll for a price that keeps you within your budget.


It is really up to you how you are going to decide to spend your "doll money" to build your collection.  Do you want to save up and get one really special doll, or do you prefer to buy more of the lower priced dolls?  If you are going for the lower priced dolls, are you trying to get your hands on the ones that will gain value over time?

There are a lot of questions you could ask yourself as you build your collection, but I think it is really much more important that you enjoy the collecting experience.

If you have the patience, you can go out on your own in search of collectible dolls.  This can be a bit of work though.  It usually involves some leg work, contacting people you don't know and sometimes even digging and rummaging through estate merchandise.  This method can be a challenge but the results can be rewarding.  I'll write more about this in another post.

Vintage Barbie Doll

Most people will choose to simply purchase the dolls they want to collect.  You can find a lot of great dolls for between $100 - $400 dollars.  Sure, this can be pricey, but if you are willing to cut out some other frivolous spending, you may be surprised at how quickly you can save up $100.

One quick tip for those collectors who are working on a budget is to talk to any friends you might have who enjoy frequenting garage sales or estate sales.  Take them out to lunch to get their attention and then tell them about the kinds of dolls you collect.  Ask them if they would be willing to keep an eye open for you when they hit their sales.  I do go to a lot of these sales, and I've been surprised at some of the old and rare items I've found at them.  To improve your odds even more, have your friend specifically ask if they are selling what you collect.  Many times people having a yard sale will only put out newer things because they think (mistakenly) that no one would want their old stuff.  Hey, asking doesn't cost a dime!

Tags: cheap collectible dolls, Doll Collecting, doll prices, dolls, dolls for sale, dolls on ebay, expensive collectible dolls, finding collectible dolls, for sale, Vintage Dolls, vintage dolls for sale