10 Cabbage Patch Kid Dolls That Could Pay Off Your Bills
Since their debut in the early ’80s, Cabbage Patch Kids have captured the hearts of millions of children and collectors across the globe. Thanks to their creative “adoption concept” and charming doe eyes, these dolls not only became a cultural phenomenon in the U.S., but also helped teach kids about responsibility and care. While all hold sentimental value, some of these vintage toys can sell for thousands of dollars today due to their rarity, unique features, or connections to pop culture.
From hand-painted prototypes to rare limited editions, here are 10 Cabbage Patch dolls that continue to soar in popularity.
1. 1983 Beatrice Cicely Doll With Adoption Papers
Part of the very first run of Cabbage Patch Kids, this doll came with its own birth certificate and adoption papers. Its vintage appeal and significance as a pioneer of the ’80s toy craze add to its value among collectors. In mint condition (or unopened), one of these early edition dolls can easily sell for around $200.
2. Hand-Signed Xavier Roberts Originals
Hand-crafted by creator Xavier Roberts before the dolls were mass-produced, these originals are considered ultra-rare. Their early design, complete with Roberts’ signature, make them highly coveted, with some fetching close to $2,000.
3. The Black Preemie Doll
A part of the preemie line, this doll stands out for being among the first to promote racial diversity within toys in the ’80s. With limited production runs and a strong nostalgic appeal, the Black Preemie Doll has become a hot commodity among collectors. In excellent condition, it can sell for upwards of $700.
4. Jesmar Cabbage Patch Dolls
Manufactured in Spain by Jesmar, these dolls are valued for having slightly different facial features and limited availability in the U.S. Produced in smaller quantities and distributed mainly in Europe, Jesmar dolls are considered a rare find for collectors. In mint condition, these dolls can sell for around $400 — and even more if they come with original packaging.
5. Coleco Bald Dolls
Considered rare because most Cabbage Patch Kids had full heads of hair, these dolls (justice for baldies!) were part of a limited production run. Thanks to their rarity and nostalgic appeal, some of these dolls have been known to sell for close to $300.
6. ‘Blythe’ Hair Color Variants
Dolls with rare hair color combinations, such as red hair with green eyes or blue eyes with blonde hair, were considered rare and more sought-after compared to their brown-eyed counterparts (pretty messed up if you ask us, but alas). The unusual pairings have made these dolls a standout choice for collectors, with even opened sets commanding prices exceeding $400.
7. World Traveler Collection Dolls
Released in the late 1980s, these dolls were dressed in outfits representing different countries such as France, Japan, and Russia. Complete with travel accessories like a suitcase, passport, and map, the traveler dolls are considered a rare commodity among collectors (not to mention super cute!) In good or mint condition, you can expect to pay around $200 for one.
8. Special Edition Olympic Dolls (1996)
Created to celebrate the ’96 Atlanta Olympics, these dolls came dressed in sporty fits and Olympic-themed accessories. Their connection to a major global event adds to their appeal among sports fans, with unopened sets selling for over $500.
9. Twin Sets
Twin sets were produced in smaller numbers compared to single dolls. The result? Collectors are willing to pay a premium to own these “limited edition” sets. Featuring matching outfits and accessories, they also had similar features like hair and eye colors. In excellent condition, especially with original packaging and adoption papers, these twin sets can sell for close to a grand.
10. Cabbage Patch Pets
Introduced as a companion line, these “pets” did not generate the same level of fervor as their “human” counterparts. But today, their quirky charm coupled with the nostalgia factor, has helped elevate their value. In good condition, you can expect to pay around $50 for one, as evidenced by this “Koosa dog” that looks more like a pig than a dog if we’re being honest.