This post is based on my responses to question I have received from readers.

Estimating the value of your Lenci doll

When asked about the value of a Lenci or similar doll I do not provide a valuation service. As a DIY approach to valuation  I  recommend the owner to watch auction closing prices for similar dolls. Historical closing prices are only a guideline to current values because the market sets the value in the end, just like stock prices. As a rule of thumb the monetary value  is only an estimate of what it would cost to replace your doll (taking account of its condition) at current prices.If you require an estimate for insurance or selling purposes I recommend auctioneers that specialise in dolls such as Theriault’s.

Is it a Lenci or “Lenci Type” doll?

If your doll matches a known model of Lenci doll with original tag and outfit that is the easiest situation but if are not sure your dolls is a Lenci or think you may have  a “Lenci type”  such as Raynal or Alma or other Lenci inspired doll, it is worthwhile to study pictures and past auctions of the most expensive Lenci dolls to get to know the faces and body types.. If there are even slight differences in the painting details of the eyes and the shapes of the facial features and hands you may not have a genuine Lenci doll.
If it is not a Lenci then search for the “lenci type” dolls on eBay or auction sites for an exact match to the face mold and painting style and hands and height of the doll to get an idea of the make and recent selling prices.

For Lenci remakes from the 80’s and later, check recent sold prices for similar dolls on eBay – use search words “lenci COA” to find the remake dolls.

What about missing or damaged Lenci doll outfits?

If your doll is missing clothes you would have to look at  similar sold dolls missing clothing. Without the outfit the value is about half the value of a doll with original dress. If your doll has a damaged or tattered outfit keep the original outfit intact for future collectors even if  you are an expert seamstress and can make a replacement outfit that will be your own work and will not have the same value to a collector as  the historically accurate item that came from the Lenci factory no matter how shabby it is, so please don’t be tempted to alter the old outfit or use parts of it to make a new outfit because your well meaning efforts will fail to find appreciation from serious collectors looking for the original factory outfit, perhaps to complete an identical outfit they have that is missing pieces or as the last rare record remaining of an original Lenci design that is almost impossible to find these days. Make a completely new outfit if you must for your own display but keep the old outfit together with the doll and give it to the new buyer. Remember the original Lenci outfit is a large part of the value of the doll. In general any outfit you make will not add significant value to the doll no matter how beautiful if is because it is not a Lenci creation.  New felt does not match the texture and quality of vintage felt and modern dyes seem harsh on a vintage doll so the result can be less than desired.

Cleaning & Restoration Issues

The condition of the doll .is highly relevant, if the doll is not well preserved and if the molding of the face has lost some definition this reduces the value. If the felt is dusty and dirty there are methods that can be successfully used to restore and improve the look of the doll. A bicycle pump can be used to blow away some of the dust on a dolls face. A nylon stocking over the head of a vacuum cleaner can be used to remove dust from the arms and legs. Pure acetone (such as used for removing gel nail varnish) can be used in stages to clean felt faces but its a bigger job than removing nail polish so the dangers of using it are greater.Antique doll restoration requires expertise and a safe environment.  Acetone is hazardous  to health and highly flammable, I prefer to avoid it  and do not recommend using it. But if you decide to use it know the risks, read the danger warnings on the label, wear an industrial quality face mask designed for use with solvents, in a well ventilated, non-smoking setting away from fire or naked flame..  Your health and safety is more important than adding a few dollars to the value of a doll.. Restoration efforts are not always successful and  and ultimately potential buyers may not appreciate your efforts when it comes to selling the doll.