Thomas Dam Troll Doll Value Guide

Originating from the 1959 woodcarvings of Danish fisherman Thomas Dam, these iconic trolls transitioned from humble Christmas gifts to a global 1960s phenomenon. Collectors prize these original 'Dam Things' for their high-quality craftsmanship and their roots in authentic Scandinavian folklore.

What Is Thomas Dam Troll Doll Worth?

The typical price range for Thomas Dam Troll Doll is $10 - $20 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Condition of the original wool hair, as thinning or matting significantly reduces the $10-$20 market value.
• Presence of original felt clothing or accessories which are often lost over decades of play.
• Clarity and color of the glass eyes, ensuring they are free of chips or internal clouding.
• The rarity of the specific hair color, with dark hair being a classic staple of the 1960s Danish era.

How to Identify Thomas Dam Troll Doll?

• Check for the 'Dam' or 'Made in Denmark' stamp located on the back or the bottom of the feet.
• Verify the presence of high-quality sheep's wool hair rather than the synthetic fibers found on later imitations.
• Look for inset glass eyes, a hallmark of early 1960s production before the transition to molded plastic eyes.
• Examine the material for a soft, high-quality PVC plastic that feels distinct from cheaper hard-plastic knockoffs.

History of Thomas Dam Troll Doll

Thomas Dam, a Danish fisherman and woodcarver, created the first troll doll in 1959. Unable to afford a Christmas gift for his daughter, he carved a doll based on Scandinavian folklore. The doll quickly gained popularity, leading to the establishment of the Dam Things company. These iconic dolls became a worldwide phenomenon in the 1960s and continue to be collected today.