The ’80s was a colorful, vibrant decade that many of us remember with great fondness. One of the key highlights of this decade was the amazing collection of dolls that graced the toy stores. Today, these dolls have become rare collector’s items, which avid collectors are eager to get their hands on. Here are 14 ’80s dolls that collectors are desperate to find.
1. Cabbage Patch Kids
These soft, chubby-cheeked dolls were a massive hit in the ’80s, with parents literally fighting over them in stores. Each Cabbage Patch Kid was unique, coming with their own birth certificate and adoption papers. Today, collectors are scouring online auctions and garage sales to find these one-of-a-kind dolls, particularly the early hand-stitched ones created by Xavier Roberts.
2. Rainbow Brite Dolls
Rainbow Brite dolls, inspired by the animated series, were a colorful staple of the ’80s. These dolls, along with their sprite friends and antagonists, the color kids, are now highly sought after by collectors. The most valuable are the large 18″ Rainbow Brite dolls and the rare color kids.
3. Strawberry Shortcake Dolls
Based on the popular greeting card character, Strawberry Shortcake dolls were a favorite among girls in the ’80s. These dolls were scented to match their names, a feature that added to their appeal. Today, collectors are particularly keen on finding the original vintage dolls that still retain their scent.
4. Jem and the Holograms Dolls
Jem and the Holograms was a popular animated TV show in the ’80s, and the dolls were just as beloved. Jem dolls are now highly coveted, especially the truly outrageous Rock ‘n Curl Jem and the rare Glitter ‘n Gold Jem.
5. My Little Pony
My Little Pony dolls, with their colorful bodies and manes, were a must-have for many children in the ’80s. Today, collectors are eager to find the original “G1” ponies, especially those with rare symbols or unique features such as flutter wings or twinkle eyes.
6. She-Ra: Princess of Power Dolls
As the female counterpart to He-Man, She-Ra: Princess of Power dolls were a big hit in the ’80s. Collectors are particularly interested in finding the original She-Ra doll, her horse Swift Wind, and her nemesis, Catra.
7. Barbie and the Rockers
’80s Barbie dolls are always popular with collectors, but Barbie and the Rockers are particularly sought after. This rock band-themed line of dolls, including Barbie, Ken, and their friends, are high on many collectors’ wish lists.
8. Care Bears
The lovable Care Bears, with their unique belly badges, were a hit in the ’80s. Collectors are desperate to find these original plush dolls, especially the rare ones like the Birthday Bear and the Care Bear Cousins.
9. Madame Alexander Dolls
While Madame Alexander dolls have been around since the 1920s, the ’80s saw a resurgence in their popularity. Collectors are particularly interested in the ’80s versions of these high-quality dolls, especially the ones based on popular characters or themes from that era.
10. Pound Puppies
These adorable stuffed dogs, which came in a cardboard doghouse, were a must-have ’80s toy. Today, collectors are eager to find the original Pound Puppies, especially those that still come with their adoption certificate and doghouse.
11. Popples
Popples were unique ’80s dolls that could be popped into a ball and then popped back out into a plush toy. Collectors are keen to find these unique dolls, especially the original nine Popples in good condition.
12. Teddy Ruxpin
Teddy Ruxpin, the storytelling bear, was a groundbreaking toy in the ’80s. Today, collectors are on the hunt for these innovative dolls, especially those that still have their original tapes and storybooks.
13. Masters of the Universe Action Figures
Although not technically dolls, Masters of the Universe action figures were a huge part of the ’80s toy scene. Now, collectors are desperate to find these figures, especially the rare ones like He-Man, Skeletor, and Teela.
14. American Girl Dolls
American Girl dolls, with their historical backstories, were a hit in the late ’80s. Today, collectors are keen to find the original three dolls – Kirsten, Samantha, and Molly – especially those that still come with their original outfits and accessories.