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I have a huge porcelain antique doll collection from the past 50 years, how can I find the value of them?

I have a collection of porcelain antique dolls from the past 50 years I am going to sell. How can I find out the value of them so i can get there true value when selling them. Some of them are from the Hamilton, Danbury Mint, and Paradise galleries. i want to be able to get the best value for them and just need to get some ideas to get them appraised.
I figured an antique appraiser would be a good idea but how do you find one?

Answer
Let me begin with a minor bit of education, if they are less than 100 years old, they are not antiques. If they are from the companies listed, they are not antiques, and, unfortunately will have little value. These companies make dolls as collectibles, meaning that nearly every one they made is still out there and in mint condition. I am sorry to have to say all that.

Some of these companies have made some dolls that are more desirable and rare than others. So a great deal will depend on what specific dolls you have. As a rule most serious collectors have no interest in dolls made by Paradise Galleries, these dolls are rather poorly made and were fairly inexpensive new. They will all realize a bit more if you still have all the packing materials and certificates for each.

There are specific artists that were used by these companies, who designed dolls more sought after because of a specific artists name being associated with their design.

Having said all of that, your best bet would be to find a doll hospital, collectors society, or doll museum in your area, for that check your local telephone directory, they will be able to either appraise your collection or direct you to another who is qualified. Also a potential for valuation may be an estate appraiser, but their fees are usually quite high.

Another viable option may be ebay, with a larger audience, you will probably realize greater monies than a private sale in your area. However, you do then have the listing fees and so forth. You may not have an idea of their value to begin with, but you'll gain greater profits than any other venue is likely to offer.

I am sorry if this information is disappointing, but I do wish you all the best in liquidating this collection.