This is a Shirley Temple doll that came from my Aunt's childhood. She has her original "Baby Take a Bow" pink outfit, mohair wig, socks and shoes. She has a composite head, neck, arms and legs with a cloth body, sleepy eyes that open & close and a crier in her back (non-working). She has no cracks or crazing and her body is in overall excellent condition. Her hair is matted from storage (I've researched washing and restyling doll hair and am interested to know if it would benefit or harm the value to do so). This doll was looked at by an appraiser a handful of years ago who identified it as authentic, and likely to be one of the unmarked prototypes (but she has since passed away and the written appraisal was never obtained). I do know that before Shirley had her first major movie hit and Ideal started producing them en mass, they were not marked as "Shirley Temple" or with the Ideal marking anywhere on the outside of the doll. She is an adorable and excellent example of composite doll artistry.
Shirley was owned by my Aunt during her childhood. She was gently played with then stored away for the past 80+ years. She has never been presented for auction before. My aunt has since passed and her Shirley is ready to be loved and appreciated in a new home.
Thank you for contacting Mearto with your appraisal inquiry.
It is a very cute Shirley Temple doll. Such vintage and antique dolls and toys are being offered at auction on a regular basis.
The Shirley Temple dolls were made after in the late 1930s when she was in the prime of her childhood career. There were made numerous variations as she was very popular and as the dolls sold very well. Today the prices depend on the condition and the maker of the dolls. Your doll appears to be in very good condition without any signs of having been played with. This is also the description you have given of the doll. It also adds to the value that the doll is still wearing its original clothes.
I believe that your Shirley Temple doll would attract the attention of both collectors and dealers if it came up for auction.
The estimate provided is for a well-advertised specialised online vintage toys and dolls auction, where I believe the doll has the best chance of realising its fullest potential. However, there is no measurement for the sentimental value you might attach to the cute Shirley Temple doll. Retail "asking prices" can be higher and vary.
Please let me know if you have any additional questions. I’m happy to help.
Thank you
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