Antique dolls are officially classed as those that were created before 1930.
There are a huge range of vintage dolls available to collectors, created from bisque, china, papier mache, wood and wax.
Some collectors prefer to focus on just one type of material whereas others like to collect dolls from a particular period of time or just collect them all! For collectors just starting out, or on a budget, specimens in poorer condition can be a great way to start your collection and restoring them can be rewarding.
Antique dolls that come with their original clothes are rare and can reach high prices.
Unclothed dolls will be cheaper and if you're handy with a sewing machine you can easily make new clothes that are sympathetic to the original time period.
Restoring vintage dolls is a hobby in itself and replacing body parts or purchasing original clothing can be expensive.
If you're buying dolls as a collectible item for their value, try to find examples in good condition without surface cracks and imperfections and with their original clothes if possible.
Less rare dolls can be found in good condition for a reasonable price.
Antique dolls can be bought from specialty doll dealers, auctions and on the internet.
eBay is a very common way to buy dolls and antiques of all kinds these days, however be sure to buy from a reputable seller and be aware that imperfections can easily be disguised in photos and are not always described fully by less-reputable sellers.
A great way to display your collection is placed in a doll's pram.
Antique prams for dolls are also available for sale and are a great collector's item in their own right.