Nancy Ann Storybook Dolls, also known as “Nancy Anns”, are a beloved classic for doll collectors. Since their introduction in 1936, Nancy Anns have been cherished for their charming looks and intricate details. These dolls have become a staple in the antique and collectible doll world, with some dolls being worth thousands of dollars today.
Nancy Ann dolls were originally created and manufactured by Nancy Ann Abbott in the 1930s. Abbott, a native of California, was inspired to create the dolls after she saw a German doll at a toy store. She decided to create her own doll and began making them by hand in her home. Abbott’s dolls quickly became popular, and in 1936, she opened her own business, “Nancy Ann Storybook Dolls”, in Los Angeles.
Nancy Ann dolls are known for their unique and delicate features. The dolls have small, delicate hands and feet, and their faces are often painted with rosy cheeks and bright eyes. Many of them have delicate lace and ribbon detailing, making them even more beautiful. The dolls were made in a variety of sizes and styles, including ballerinas, brides, and poodle skirts.
Nancy Ann Dolls Through the Years
Nancy Ann Storybook Dolls were hugely popular in the 1930s and 1940s, and the company continued to produce dolls until the late 1960s. In the 1940s, Abbott introduced a new line of dolls known as “Little Lady” dolls, which were smaller and less expensive than the original dolls. The company also produced special-edition dolls for Christmas and other special occasions.
Nancy Ann Storybook Dolls experienced a decline in popularity in the 1960s, as the demand for dolls began to decline. The company ceased production in 1968, and the molds and tools used to make the dolls were sold to a company in Japan. The company in Japan continued to produce the dolls for a few years, but eventually the production stopped.
Finding Nancy Ann Dolls Today
Today, Nancy Ann Storybook Dolls are highly sought-after by collectors. Many of the dolls have become quite rare, and some of the original models are worth thousands of dollars. For collectors who are looking for a more affordable option, there are reproductions of the original dolls that can be found online.
Nancy Ann Storybook Dolls are beloved by collectors all over the world. Their charming looks, intricate details, and unique styles have made them a classic in the doll world. Whether you’re looking for a rare original or a more affordable reproduction, Nancy Ann Storybook Dolls are sure to bring a smile to your face.
