In 1986, Pleasant Rowland, a former teacher from Wisconsin, founded a company that revolutionized how young people learned about American history—centered around young girls.

With the introduction of American Girl dolls, Rowland reshaped the toy industry and directly challenged Barbie’s dominance. Each doll was rooted in a unique historical context, spanning from the mid-19th century to World War II, and came with its own book series narrated from the perspective of a young girl typically aged between 8 and 11.

Initially, these dolls, priced around $65 in 1986 (equivalent to approximately $174 today), were only available through catalogs. Nevertheless, the brand experienced immense success, achieving nearly $1 million in sales in its inaugural year.

Decades later, the original fans of these dolls, including favorites like Addy and Felicity, still cherish them, particularly Millennials who grew up with the brand. With a new American Girl doll movie on the horizon from Mattel, it’s an opportune moment to revisit and appraise the dolls from your childhood, especially for collectors. Below, we explore some of the most sought-after American Girl dolls and accessories from the ’80s and ’90s that could yield a significant profit if you’re considering selling.

1. Molly McIntire Doll (1986)
2. Samantha Parkington Doll (1986)
3. Kirsten Larson Doll (1986)
4. Felicity Merriman Doll (1991)
5. Addy Walker Doll (1993)
6. Addy’s Trunk (1993)
7. Molly’s Christmas Box (1986)
8. Felicity’s Writing Chair (1991)
9. Kirsten’s Wooden Trunk (1986)
10. Samantha’s Wicker Table & Chairs (1987)

Molly McIntire Doll (1986)

The first three American Girl dolls—Molly McIntire, Samantha Parkington, and Kirsten Larson—debuted in 1986, and it’s no surprise they’re now quite valuable.

Molly was crafted to represent a girl from the World War II era, complete with glasses, a blue wool sweater featuring an argyle design, and a navy A-line skirt. Key features of the original release include accessories like a real steel penny, a silver locket that opens, and uniquely curved glasses. Just the glasses alone have fetched up to $120 on eBay. If you possess the doll along with all its accessories and original outfit—especially if it includes the intact box—prices can soar to $3000. Another set sold for about $800 recently.

Felicity Merriman, introduced in 1991, symbolizes Colonial America during the early Revolutionary War. Her original outfit is highly coveted, and the value can greatly increase depending on the accessories included; collectors might pay up to $400 for a complete set. Notably, Addy’s wooden trunk from 1993, which includes a Civil War-era newspaper within, is also sought after, with resale values typically ranging from $200 to $400.

Molly’s Christmas Box from 1986 features a small nurse doll and a snow globe, which can sell for around $140, while the complete Christmas collection could bring in even more.

Felicity’s Writing Chair, added in 1991, replicates an iconic design and can fetch about $100 in mint condition with the original packaging. Kirsten’s Wooden Trunk, inspired by early settlers, can sell for $150 to $375, especially if paired with the matching bed and quilt.

Samantha’s Wicker Table & Chairs from 1987 debuted alongside “Happy Birthday, Samantha!” and, when combined with her Victorian lemonade set, could earn you upwards of $600.

These valuable American Girl items can significantly enrich your collection. Start exploring your options and uncover some hidden treasures!