How to Determine Your Porcelain Doll's Value

Many collectors of porcelain dolls see their value beyond the monetary. But it is common to wonder what the dolls might be worth. Putting a dollar figure on a porcelain doll isn't always straightforward, though.

Porcelain dolls made 80 to 100 years ago or more can be quite valuable. For example, a doll made in 1916 by the French sculptor Albert Marque—one of 100 limited edition dolls dressed by the Parisian couturier Jeanne Margaine-LaCroix—sold in 2014 by auction house Theriault's for $300,000.

This sale is the exception, not the rule, however. A quick scan of the auction and buy-it-now listings on eBay finds porcelain doll values ranging from around $5 and $10 to several thousand dollars or more, but no dolls listed above $10,000.

What's My Porcelain Doll Worth?

To determine your porcelain doll's value, first, you'll need to find out who manufactured it and when. Most dolls have a manufacturer's stamp and a marking indicating the year they were made.

If you can't find any prominent manufacturer's markings, look for markers on the back of the doll's head, shoulders, or upper back. Some of these are numbers from the porcelain molds used to make the doll, and you can look these up online (or potentially consult an appraiser) to help you identify your particular doll.

Next, you'll need to assess your doll's condition honestly, as it's unlikely to be perfect. Obviously, mint-condition porcelain dolls are worth more than those in poor condition, but it's more unusual than you think to have one in perfect mint condition.

Take a close look at the doll. Are there chips or smudges? Does it look clean and bright or worn and tired? Does the doll have all its hair and original clothing, or have some pieces been replaced?

Determine whether the doll has had any repairs or more extensive restoration work. A doll that's had some work done is generally less valuable than a doll in its original condition.

Find "Comps" for Your Doll

As in real estate, agents price dolls partly based on "comps" or similar dolls that have sold. You'll need to find comparable sales to help set your porcelain doll's value.

Unless you have reason to believe your doll is especially valuable, start on eBay. Search the "sold" listings for dolls that match (or come close to matching) your doll's description. This valuing method isn't always definitive since you may not find an exact match. But it'll give you an idea of what you can expect to get for your doll.

If you think your porcelain doll may be extremely valuable, you probably don't want to start with eBay (although you may still want to look there to see what's sold). Instead, you should check with an appraiser who specializes in antique dolls.