Vintage Ken Dolls

1961 - Mattel introduces Ken and his wardrobe. The first Ken stood twelve inches tall and was sold in a box, with fashion booklet, sandals, a towel and black wire stand. The first Ken was sold with flocked hair available as a blonde, a rare brunette, sold as a store exclusive, and dark brunette.

1962 - The first Ken doll's flocked hair would rub off easily so Mattel issued a new version of Ken in 1962 with painted hair.

1963 - This year, the painted hair on Ken shrunk a quarter of an inch to 11 3/4 inches! This oddball version of Ken also had loose leg joints and more pronounced kneecaps.

1964 - By this year Mattel corrected the fading vinyl issue, and the knobby kneecaps, and then returned Ken to his original 12-inch stature! (article continues below)... Read more