Blonde, glamorous, and confident, she wore a black-and-white striped swimsuit, high ponytail, and a bold red lip. She wasn’t a baby doll or a toddler — she was a woman. And she was here to show girls that they could dream big.
Created by Ruth Handler and launched by Mattel, the first Barbie doll was officially introduced on March 9, 1959 at the American Toy Fair in New York. That date is now celebrated as Barbie’s birthday.
What made her different?
While most dolls at the time focused on motherhood, Barbie represented independence, fashion, and future careers. She wasn’t just a toy — she was a vision.
Her first model, now known as "Barbie #1," came with:
– Soft curly bangs and a high ponytail
– Arched brows and a sideways glance
– Gold hoop earrings
– Open-toe black heels and sunglasses
– A tiny stand and a collector’s box
Today, an original Barbie #1 in mint condition can sell for over $25,000, making her one of the most collectible fashion dolls in the world.
Fun Facts About the Original 1959 Barbie
1. Original Price: The first Barbie doll was sold for just $3 in 1959. Today, a mint-condition original can fetch up to $27,450 at auction.
2. First-Year Sales: Despite initial skepticism, Barbie's debut was a success, with 300,000 dolls sold in the first year.
3. Inspiration: Barbie's design was inspired by the German doll Bild Lilli, originally a novelty item for grown ups. Ruth Handler, Barbie's creator, saw potential in adapting it for children.
4. Manufacturing: The original Barbie dolls were manufactured in Japan, with hand-stitched clothing, reflecting post-war craftsmanship.
5. Marketing Strategy: Barbie was one of the first toys to be marketed directly to children through television commercials, a revolutionary approach at the time.
6. Full Name: Barbie's full name is Barbara Millicent Roberts, named after Ruth Handler's daughter.
7. Cultural Impact: Barbie's introduction marked a shift in the toy industry, providing young girls with a doll that represented adult roles and independence, rather than traditional baby dolls.
