1963 Barbie Dolls

Fashion Queen Barbie adds a new twist to the 1959 original debuting with three interchangeable wigs: a platinum Bubble Cut, a brunette Pageboy, and Swirl, which is a titian side-swept ponytail.

Two of this year's memorable fashions are Theatre Date, an exquisite emerald green satin suit with matching pillbox hat, and Sophisticated Lady, an elegant rose taffeta ball gown.

Barbie meets her first and soon-to-be best friend, Midge in 1963. This freckled doll will become a favorite for many collectors. Read more

Vintage Midge Dolls

Midge Hadley was introduced as Barbie's best friend in 1963 to counter criticism that Barbie was too mature for a children's doll. Unlike Barbie's sculpted features, Midge's face was fuller and gentler with a sprinkling of freckles across her nose.

Midge's fashionable flipped hair was available in three different colors: brunette, blond and red. There were a small portion of Midge dolls made without freckles and some that showed teeth. These models are extremely rare and very collectible today.

The original Midge had straight arms and legs, and came in a two-piece swimming suit. The color varied depending on the doll's hair color. She was made 11 ½ inches tall, just like Barbie, and a major selling point was the fact that Midge and Barbie could share clothing. (article continues below) Read more