The Definitive Guide to Old Troll Dolls: Value, Identification, and Collecting Tips
Discover the hidden value of vintage troll dolls, from DAM originals to 90s treasures. Learn identification tips, price ranges, and what makes certain trolls worth hundreds.
By Appraisily TeamLast updated November 7, 2024
With their wild, colorful hair and impish smiles, troll dolls have captured the hearts of collectors for decades. These quirky figurines, once considered simple good luck charms, now command surprising prices in the collectibles market. Whether tucked away in your attic or proudly displayed on a shelf, your vintage troll dolls might be worth far more than you realize.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the fascinating world of vintage troll dolls, from their humble beginnings in Denmark to their worldwide popularity. You’ll learn how to identify valuable specimens, understand current market trends, and determine just how much those nostalgic treasures might be worth today.
The History of Troll Dolls
<h2 class="section-header__title">
<span>From Danish Woodcarving to Global Phenomenon</span>
</h2>
<div class="section-header__body">Understanding the evolution of troll dolls helps collectors identify valuable vintage pieces and appreciate their cultural significance.</div>
Evolution of Troll Dolls
1956
Original Creation
Danish woodcutter Thomas Dam creates the first troll doll from wood for his daughter. These larger, more pliable dolls were the precursors to the mass-produced versions.
1959
Commercial Production Begins
Dam begins producing smaller plastic versions called “Dam Things.” These early vinyl trolls, now known as Dam trolls, are among the most valuable to collectors.
1960s
American Troll Craze
Troll dolls explode in popularity in the United States. Due to copyright issues, many American companies begin producing their own versions.
1980s-1990s
Troll Revival
Troll dolls experience a major comeback with companies like Russ, Ace Novelty, and Norfin producing millions of new varieties, including Treasure Trolls with jeweled navels.
2010s-Present
Modern Collectibles
DreamWorks acquires troll doll rights and releases animated films, while vintage trolls become increasingly valuable collectibles, with original Dam trolls commanding premium prices.
Thomas Dam’s original creation has spawned decades of colorful variations. The earliest Dam trolls are the most prized by serious collectors, but even mass-produced versions from the 1960s through the 1990s can hold significant value if they’re in good condition or have unique characteristics.
The Danish creator originally made the dolls from natural materials like wood. As demand grew, production moved to vinyl and plastic, allowing for greater production volume and eventually leading to a worldwide phenomenon.
Identifying Valuable Troll Dolls
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<span>What Makes a Troll Doll Valuable</span>
</h2>
<div class="section-header__body">Several factors contribute to a troll doll’s value in today’s collectibles market. Understanding these elements will help you assess your own collection.</div>
Early Dam trolls from the late 1950s through the 1960s typically command the highest prices. Limited editions, unusual designs, and trolls in animal forms (such as elephants, giraffes, or monkeys) are particularly sought after. The mini-Dam trolls, especially those with unusual coloring or features, can fetch impressive sums at auction.
Condition Matters
Troll Doll Condition Assessment
Check applicable items to assess your troll doll's condition
Original hair is intact and vibrant
No cracks or damage to vinyl body
Original clothing or accessories present
Clear manufacturer markings visible
No discoloration or yellowing
Original packaging or tags present
Joints and limbs work properly (if articulated)
Free from odors, stains, or damage
Special Features and Variations
Certain characteristics can significantly increase a troll doll’s value:
Unusual hair colors: While rainbow and bright colors are common, natural hair colors or rare shades can increase value
Animal trolls: Dam produced elephant, giraffe, and monkey trolls that are highly collectible
Unique eye features: Early trolls with glass or unusual eyes command premium prices
Original clothing: Trolls still wearing their original felt or fabric outfits are more valuable
Special materials: Amber, glitter, or flocked versions often sell for more than standard models
Current Market Value of Vintage Troll Dolls
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<span>What Your Troll Dolls Might Be Worth</span>
</h2>
<div class="section-header__body">The value of vintage troll dolls varies widely based on age, manufacturer, condition, and rarity. Here’s a breakdown of current market values.</div>
Notable Troll Doll Sales
Vintage Troll Doll Value Guide
Average market prices as of 2024
Category
Price
Notes
Original Dam Trolls (1950s-1960s)
$200-$1,000+
Highest value for rare features, excellent condition with original clothing
Dam Animal Trolls (Elephant, Monkey)
$300-$900
Extremely collectible, especially in good condition
Mini Dam Trolls (1960s)
$50-$875
High value for unusual colors or complete sets
1980s Revival Trolls (Norfin, TNT)
$20-$100
Value depends on condition and uniqueness
1990s Russ/Treasure Trolls
$10-$150
Complete sets or unopened packages worth more
Themed Trolls (Holidays, Professions)
$15-$75
Seasonal or special occasion trolls with accessories
Generic/Unmarked Trolls
$5-$30
Mass-produced versions with standard features
</tbody>
</table>
Recent auction results demonstrate the high-end potential for rare troll dolls:
A 1960s 3-inch mini-Dam monkey troll doll sold in August 2024 for $875
A lot of mini-glitter trolls from Dark Horse (1990s) sold for $142.50
A vintage Dam elephant troll in excellent condition sold for $650
A complete set of five 1960s Dam trolls with original felt clothes fetched $350
It’s worth noting that prices continue to climb for rare specimens as collectors compete for these nostalgic treasures. Most common troll dolls from the 80s and 90s remain affordable for casual collectors, typically ranging from $10-$50 depending on condition.
How to Identify Original Dam Trolls
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<span>Authenticating Valuable Dam Trolls</span>
</h2>
<div class="section-header__body">Distinguishing authentic Dam trolls from later reproductions is crucial for proper valuation. Here are the key identification markers.</div>
Original Dam trolls have several distinguishing characteristics:
Material: Authentic Dam trolls are made from soft, high-quality vinyl that feels different from harder plastic reproductions. The material has a distinctive tactile quality.
Facial Features: Original Dam trolls have distinctive facial expressions with deeply inset eyes (often glass in the earliest versions), a broad nose, and a slightly open mouth showing teeth.
Construction: The hair is typically inserted directly into the head rather than attached via a plug, and the arms and legs are often jointed in early models.
Size and Weight: Original Dam trolls have a substantial feel and range from 3 inches to over 12 inches in height, with the most common vintage sizes being around 3-5 inches.
If you believe you have an authentic Dam troll, it’s worth consulting a specialist or referencing detailed collector guides to confirm its authenticity and potential value. The Troll Hole Museum in Alliance, Ohio—home to the world’s largest collection of troll dolls—offers resources for identification and authentication.
Selling Your Vintage Troll Dolls
<h2 class="section-header__title">
<span>Where and How to Sell Collectible Trolls</span>
</h2>
<div class="section-header__body">If you’ve discovered valuable trolls in your collection, here are the best platforms and approaches for selling them.</div>
Best Platforms for Selling
eBay: The most popular marketplace for troll dolls, with a wide audience of collectors. Perfect for both common and rare specimens.
Etsy: Excellent for vintage collectibles, especially if you have authentic Dam trolls or unusual specimens.
Specialized Collector Forums: Websites and Facebook groups dedicated to troll collectors offer targeted audiences willing to pay premium prices for special pieces.
Auction Houses: For extremely rare or valuable Dam trolls worth hundreds of dollars, traditional auction houses might be appropriate.
The Troll Hole Museum: This museum maintains the world’s largest collection of troll dolls and sometimes purchases exceptional specimens for their collection.
Presentation Tips for Maximum Value
Clean Gently: Use a soft cloth with mild soap and water to carefully clean vinyl bodies. For hair, use a small amount of fabric softener diluted in water to restore the fluff.
Photograph Thoroughly: Take clear photos from multiple angles, including any manufacturer marks, special features, and original clothing or accessories.
Provide Detailed Descriptions: Include measurements, suspected age, manufacturer (if known), and any special characteristics that might increase value.
Document Provenance: If you have original packaging, purchase receipts, or knowledge of when and where the troll was acquired, include this information.
Research Before Pricing: Look up recently sold similar items to establish a realistic price range rather than setting an arbitrary value.
Collecting and Preserving Vintage Troll Dolls
<h2 class="section-header__title">
<span>Building and Maintaining a Troll Collection</span>
</h2>
<div class="section-header__body">Whether you’re starting a collection or preserving inherited trolls, these tips will help maintain their condition and value.</div>
Storage and Preservation
Avoid Direct Sunlight: UV rays can fade hair colors and deteriorate vinyl over time.
Control Temperature and Humidity: Extreme conditions can cause vinyl to crack or become sticky. Aim for moderate, stable conditions.
Dust Protection: Display cases or cabinets help prevent dust accumulation, which can be difficult to remove from troll hair.
Handling Practices: Always handle vintage trolls with clean hands, and avoid touching the hair too frequently to prevent oils from breaking down the fibers.
Original Packaging: If you have trolls in their original packaging, consider keeping them that way, as mint-in-box specimens command significantly higher prices.
Building a Valuable Collection
For those interested in collecting troll dolls as an investment or hobby:
Focus on a Niche: Specialize in a specific era, manufacturer, or type (like animal trolls or profession-themed trolls).
Research Authentication: Learn to distinguish genuine Dam trolls from reproductions and later manufacturers.
Network with Other Collectors: Join online forums and groups dedicated to troll collecting to share knowledge and find rare pieces.
Document Your Collection: Keep detailed records of each troll’s characteristics, purchase information, and estimated value.
Consider Insurance: For valuable collections, specialized collectibles insurance may be appropriate.
Frequently Asked Questions About Vintage Troll Dolls
Common Questions About Vintage Troll Dolls
Are older troll dolls worth anything?
Yes, older troll dolls can be quite valuable, especially original Dam trolls from the 1950s and 1960s. These can sell for $200-$1,000 or more depending on condition, rarity, and special features. Animal-shaped trolls (like elephants or monkeys) are particularly valuable in the collector’s market. Even a vintage troll mix lot recently sold for $205.
The most valuable trolls are typically those with unusual features, original clothing, and in excellent condition. However, even common trolls from the 1980s-1990s can be worth $10-$50 if in good condition.
Is there a market for troll dolls?
Absolutely! The market for vintage troll dolls is quite active, with collectors worldwide seeking specific specimens for their collections. While most common trolls sell for modest amounts ($5-$50), rare and early examples can command hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
Online marketplaces like eBay and Etsy host thousands of troll doll listings, and specialized collector forums and groups facilitate sales between dedicated enthusiasts. The market is particularly strong for original Dam trolls, animal variations, and trolls with unusual features or coloring.
How do you identify a troll doll?
Troll dolls are characterized by their distinct design featuring a small body, large head, and long, brightly colored hair. Beyond these basics, identification factors include:
Material quality and feel (early Dam trolls use a distinct soft vinyl)
Facial features (distinctive nose, mouth, and eye styles vary by maker)
Hair insertion method (early trolls have hair inserted directly into the head)
Jointed limbs (many original Dam trolls have articulated arms and legs)
The most valuable trolls are those that can be authenticated as original Dam products from the 1950s-1960s, which have a different quality and appearance from later mass-produced versions.
What is the oldest troll doll?
The oldest troll dolls date back to 1956 when Danish woodcutter and fisherman Thomas Dam created the first troll doll for his daughter. These original trolls were hand-carved from wood and were larger than later commercial versions.
In 1959, Dam began mass-producing smaller plastic versions called “Dam Things.” These early vinyl trolls from the late 1950s and early 1960s are the oldest commercially produced troll dolls and are highly prized by collectors today. They feature a distinctive design and quality that differs from later reproductions.
What are the most valuable troll dolls?
The most valuable troll dolls include:
Original Dam trolls from the late 1950s to early 1960s in excellent condition ($200-$1,000+)
Dam animal trolls, especially elephants and monkeys ($300-$900)
Rare Dam trolls with unusual hair colors or special features
Complete sets of vintage Dam trolls with original clothing
Limited edition or promotional trolls in original packaging
Recent auction sales have seen rare specimens like a 1960s mini-Dam monkey troll sell for $875, demonstrating the high values possible for exceptional examples.
How can I clean my vintage troll dolls without damaging them?
Use a soft cloth lightly dampened with mild soap and water
Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive materials
Pat dry completely after cleaning
For the hair:
Create a solution of lukewarm water with a small amount of fabric softener
Gently comb through with a wide-toothed comb while damp
Allow to air dry completely, then fluff with fingers
Never submerge vintage trolls fully in water, as this can damage internal structures or cause deterioration of the vinyl. For extremely valuable specimens, consider consulting a professional toy restorer.
Where can I sell my vintage troll dolls?
The best places to sell vintage troll dolls include:
eBay: The largest marketplace with the widest audience
Etsy: Excellent for authentic vintage items
Specialized collector forums and Facebook groups
Local antique shops or toy collectors’ shows
Auction houses (for extremely valuable specimens)
For maximum value, provide clear photographs, detailed descriptions, and any information about the doll’s age, manufacturer, and provenance. Researching similar sold items will help you price your trolls appropriately.
How can I tell if my troll doll is a valuable Dam original?
Examine the material: Dam trolls use a distinctive soft vinyl that feels different from harder plastic reproductions
Study facial features: Original Dam trolls have characteristic expressions with inset eyes, broad noses, and slightly open mouths showing teeth
Inspect construction: The hair is typically inserted directly into the head, and early models often have jointed limbs
Consider the age: If the troll dates to the 1950s-1960s and has the characteristics above, it’s more likely to be a valuable original
For valuable specimens, consider consulting with an expert collector or reference detailed collector guides for confirmation.
Conclusion: The Enduring Appeal of Troll Dolls
From their humble origins in a Danish woodworker’s shop to their status as valuable collectibles, troll dolls have maintained their charm and appeal across generations. The nostalgic connection many people feel to these quirky figurines, combined with the rarity of early specimens, has created a thriving collector’s market.
Whether you’re rediscovering trolls tucked away in an attic, actively building a collection, or simply curious about their value, understanding what makes certain troll dolls valuable can be both fascinating and potentially profitable. Original Dam trolls from the 1950s and 1960s remain the most coveted, but even later reproductions can hold sentimental and monetary value.
As with any collectible, condition, authenticity, and rarity drive value. By learning to identify genuine vintage trolls and properly caring for these nostalgic treasures, you can preserve both their charm and their worth for years to come.
Have you discovered a potentially valuable troll in your collection? Consider consulting a specialized appraiser or connecting with the collecting community to learn more about your specific trolls and their potential value in today’s market.
