Thomas Dam Troll Dolls Value Guide

Originally hand-carved by Danish woodcarver Thomas Dam in 1959, these 'Good Luck Trolls' became a global 1960s phenomenon. These specific vintage PVC models, featuring vibrant orange and blonde hair with original fabric outfits, represent the peak of the mid-century toy craze.

What affects the value of Thomas Dam Troll Dolls?

• Condition of the original fabric outfits, specifically the green suit and pink dress.
• The vibrancy and thickness of the iconic frizzy orange and blonde hair.
• Overall preservation of the PVC body, including lack of scuffs or 'troll rot' (plastic degradation).
• Presence of original tags or markings that confirm the 1960s Danish origin.

How to Identify Thomas Dam Troll Dolls?

• Check the back or the bottom of the feet for the 'Dam' or 'Thomas Dam' maker's mark.
• Verify the hair material is high-quality sheep wool or early synthetic fibers characteristic of the 1960s.
• Look for the distinctively heavy, high-quality PVC plastic used in authentic Danish production compared to lighter imitations.
• Examine the glass or painted eyes for the specific cheerful expression unique to Dam's original imagination.

History of Thomas Dam Troll Dolls

Troll dolls, also known as Good Luck Trolls, were originally created in 1959 by Thomas Dam, a Danish woodcarver. He couldn't afford a Christmas present for his daughter, so he carved the doll from his imagination. The dolls quickly gained popularity in Europe and then in the United States in the 1960s, becoming a major toy craze. Their distinctive look, with frizzy, brightly colored hair, and cheerful expressions, made them iconic. While various companies produced similar dolls, Thomas Dam's original creations are highly collectible.