Build a reference collection

Last night I mentioned that I looked in several reference books to find out all I could about the doll in the discussion. Building a reference library is probably one of the best things you can do for yourself once you've selected a category of collectible. There are hundreds of books available on almost every subject, some are better than others, but this is generally a matter open to lots of discussion itself! Some people will recommend a particular book, others something else, check them all out and choose those you find easiest to use for yourself.

In researching the doll I used the following books, and these are just the start of a good reference collection, there are many more available for each specific category of doll, my reference library tends to be more general in scope:

Blue Book of Dolls/Values, author Jan Foulke, Hobby House Press, this comes out every year or so and is considered by many to be the definitive book on doll values. It is only a guide as some dolls will fall below the listed value and an exceptional doll above the listed value. I keep several years handy, as all dolls are not referenced in each book.

The Main Street Dictionary of Doll Marks, author Jean Bach, Main Street Press, is well organized, and contains many good mark facsimiles. I like the appendices in this book, as they cross reference mold numbers.

The Collector's Encyclopedia of Dolls Volumes I and II, authors Dorothy, Elizabeth and Evelyn Coleman, Crown Publishers. I don't know if this one is still in print; my volume I copy is dated 1968 and volume II is 1986. These are large volumes, and cover a lot of territory, some a bit obscure, but lots of good stuff here. Well worth finding a copy.

German Dolls Identification and Values, author Patricia Smith, Collectore Books,  not sure if this is still in print either my copy is 1985. Good Photos.

The ABC's of Doll Collecting, author John C. Schweitzer, Sterling Publishing, my copy is from 1981 so again it may be out of print. Good reference for beginning collectors.

The Collectors Book of Dolls' Clothes, authors The Colemans, Crown Publishers, good reference for assistance in determining the originality of doll clothes, or their appropriateness for a particular doll. This too may be out of print, but well worth finding.

Again there are many books out there that cover these same subjects so look them over and select one or two of your liking, read them and keep them handy. Researching a newly acquired item is half the fun!

I will see you again tomorrow, till then Good Night!