Midge Doll Value Guide

1964 VINTAGE STRAIGHT LEG BLONDE MIDGE IN OSS W/ RARE HTF PAINTED LEGS | eBay
Midge Doll
Estimated Value
$70 – $90
Period
1963-1966
Origin
Japan
Materials
Plastic, fabric
Category
Midge doll

Introduced by Mattel in 1963, Midge Hadley Sherwood was designed as a wholesome alternative to Barbie, featuring a softer aesthetic with her signature freckles and side-glancing eyes. These early Japanese-made dolls are highly prized by collectors for their historical role in expanding the Barbie universe during the mid-1960s.

What Is Midge Doll Worth?

The typical price range for Midge Doll is $70 - $90 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

  • Condition of the facial paint, specifically the preservation of the delicate freckles and lip color.
  • The presence of the original 1960s white top and dark bottoms outfit in good repair.
  • Hair quality, specifically the vibrancy of the blonde fiber and lack of 'green ear' from vintage earrings.
  • Overall structural integrity of the plastic body and the clarity of the Mattel manufacturer stamps.

How to Identify Midge Doll?

  • Look for the 'Midge™/©1962/Barbie®/©1958/by Mattel, Inc.' marking on the right buttock.
  • Verify the presence of the distinct freckle pattern across the bridge of the nose and cheeks.
  • Confirm the 'Made in Japan' stamp, which is typical for the 1963-1966 production era.
  • Check for the original side-glancing eye paint and molded hair under the wig if applicable.

History of Midge Doll

Midge Hadley Sherwood was introduced by Mattel in 1963 as Barbie's best friend. She was created to address concerns from parents that Barbie was too provocative, offering a more wholesome image. Midge dolls were initially produced until 1966, undergoing several redesigns and reintroductions over the decades. The earliest Midge dolls, like this one, are highly sought after by collectors due to their distinct facial features, particularly the freckles and side-glancing eyes.

Shop Similar

Related Items

Have an antique to identify?

Get an instant AI appraisal with values, history, and market insights.

Download for iPhone