11 Vintage Troll Dolls That Became Cool Again
Troll dolls, with their eccentric hair and whimsical expressions, are undeniably unforgettable. Created by Thomas Dam in the 1950s, these dolls became an overnight sensation, captivating children and adults alike. Over the years, they’ve made several comebacks, cementing their place in popular culture. Despite their quirky nature, some troll dolls have stood the test of time, becoming highly sought after by collectors.
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Dam Things Original 1950s Troll Doll
The original troll doll from the late 1950s has a special place in toy history because it was the first of its kind made by Thomas Dam in Denmark. Collectors and nostalgic fans enjoy seeing this version pop up at shows and online auctions because it started the whole trend. In today’s market, a good condition original can fetch between $200 and $600. Many adults who grew up in the 1960s and 1970s remember this doll fondly which helps keep interest strong.
This original version feels fun in any display and still sparks smiles from people of all ages. Older collectors in their 40s and up often pursue these dolls to connect with memories from childhood. Some high quality examples with tags can reach prices above the typical range. The hand painted face and simple body give it a timeless appeal. Fans often talk about it in collector groups and at local toy fairs.
Dam Troll with Original Outfit from 1970s
The 1970s troll with its original woven outfit is notable because most lost their clothes long ago. These outfits give the doll character and show the variety that existed in those years. An original outfit in good shape can push the value into the $250 to $500 area at auction. Teen collectors today enjoy this version for its retro vibe and different wardrobe styles.
When someone spots an original outfit still attached, other collectors take notice. People in their 30s and 40s enjoy hunting for these dolls because they remind them of school days and playtime. The mix of soft body and colorful outfit makes it a fun piece to have in a collection. A few rare outfit patterns can even bring more value. Fans of vintage toys often share photos of these dressed trolls in online groups.
Dam Rainbow Troll with Multi Colored Hair
A rainbow troll with multi colored hair feels fun and cheerful because it stands out from single color hair versions. These dolls got more attention when social media trends highlighted bright colors and nostalgic toys. Market value for a good example is around $120 to $350. Younger collectors who enjoy bold looks and vintage pop culture like this version.
When the hair still feels full and vibrant, this type becomes a conversation piece. Teens and young adults often post photos of these on social platforms which keeps interest healthy. The rainbow effect makes it easy to match with different display themes. Many people remember them from toy aisles and gift shops.
Dam Ultra Rare Glow in the Dark Troll
A glow in the dark troll from a limited run drew interest because it has a feature most others do not. Under a light then in darkness it gives off an eerie yet playful glow that makes people smile. Few have survived in good shape which makes demand higher among collectors. These can sell around $300 to $700 when the glow effect still works.
Adults who enjoy unique and less common pieces are often drawn to this type. The glow effect brings a sense of fun that gets people talking at toy fairs. Market watchers note that examples with stronger glow and clean bodies bring the best prices. Younger fans who love oddball toys also enjoy showing these to friends. It becomes a wild piece when shown in dim lighting which makes it feel special.
Dam Troll with Rare Hair Color Combinations
Some troll dolls came with unusual hair mixes that were not made in large numbers which makes them prized items today. Colors like turquoise and lavender together are examples that often catch the eye of buyers. These can sell for $180 to $500 depending on how rare the combination is. Collectors who like variety lean toward this type because each feels unique.
People who attend toy shows talk about rare hair color trolls like treasured finds. Adults in their 30s and older enjoy matching memories of these colors with old catalogs. When the hair stays bright and fluffy the doll often holds more value. Fans often compare notes on which color mixes are the rarest. A few sellers on marketplace sites report strong interest from toy fans.
Dam Holiday Themed Trolls
Holiday themed troll dolls with outfits or colors tied to celebrations are fun pieces because they tie into memories of special seasons. Dolls with Santa outfits or Easter pastel hair often catch the eye of collectors and seasonal decorators. These usually range from $100 to $300 depending on theme and condition. Families who enjoy decorating for holidays enjoy adding these to their displays.
People who grew up with holiday toys often feel a warm memory when they see these again. Some collectors match them to vintage ornaments and seasonal décor from the same years. Bright themed colors and original accessories often bring higher interest. Younger adults who like nostalgic seasonal items post photos of them during holiday months. These pieces often feel joyful when shown among other vintage items.
Dam Troll with Blinking Eyes from 1980s
A troll doll with blinking eyes from the 1980s is loved because it added interaction that earlier versions did not have. The spring loaded eyes gave it a playful quality that made kids smile back in the day. These dolls often sell between $100 and $300 if the eye mechanism works. Collectors who enjoy quirky features are drawn to this type.
Older kids who grew up in the 1980s feel nostalgic when they see this version again. Groups dedicated to toy history often talk about the blinking eye feature with enthusiasm. Dolls with bright eye movement tend to attract more interest at toy swaps. Condition of the eye mechanism can have a big impact on price. People often pair these with other 1980s toys in themed shelves.
Dam First Series Good Luck Troll
Early series troll dolls labeled Good Luck are interesting because they show the original message printed on tags or bodies. These carries a nostalgic greeting that many older fans recall from childhood. A well kept example can trade for $250 to $600 at toy auctions. Older adults who want a nostalgic piece from their first years of collecting like these.
When the original tag is still attached it often increases the value noticeably. Marketplace sellers often highlight this feature when listing the doll. Fans in their 40s and above often share photos and memories of these greetings. Many choose to display them near other cheerful memorabilia. Condition of the lettering matters a great deal when buyers look at offers.
Dam Limited Edition Promotional Troll
Some companies issued promotional troll dolls as part of marketing events which makes those versions uncommon today. These promotional runs often included special markings or labels that set them apart. Prices for these varies widely but often sit between $200 and $600. Collectors enjoy finding these because they feel like a piece of toy history that goes beyond play.
Adults who remember getting these at local events enjoy owning one again as a reminder. Many collectors enjoy comparing markings to see which events they came from. A clean example with clear marking often brings more interest. People in their 30s and older often talk about spotting these at swap meets. These pieces can feel like hidden treasures when found.
Dam Troll with Sealed Hair from 1960s
A 1960s troll with its hair still in pristine shape is a jewel for collectors because most examples have worn hair by now. The look of thick, colorful hair draws attention and makes these dolls stand out on display shelves. This type can be worth around $150 to $400 if the hair and body are in great shape. Young adults who grew up seeing these in toy stores find them especially appealing.
People who like whimsical figures talk about this version in online forums and at meet ups. It feels like a piece of playroom history to many from Generation X and older millennials. Extra bright hair tends to bring higher interest and greater dollar value. These dolls often remind folks of their own childhood collections. It is common to see them rise in price when they appear at estate sales.
Dam Glow Hair Troll with Printed Face Detail
A troll with glow hair and printed facial details stands out because it combines eye appeal with fun features. The glow hair effect makes it interesting under different lighting situations which draws attention. These dolls often trade for $200 to $500 depending on how well the glow still works. Fans of vintage toys enjoy showing these off because of the visual contrast.
Adults who enjoy bright and playful pieces often point to these in their collections. The printed face detail gives a sense of character that many find endearing. Dolls with very bright glow hair often attract looks from buyers. Some collectors display these with lighting that highlights the effect. The mix of visual flair and playful history keeps them in conversations among collectors.
This article originally appeared on Avocadu.