Lot # : 90 - #4 BL PT SAMPLE DOLL NRFB IN #969 SUBURBAN SHOPPER

090) #4 BLONDE PT SAMPLE DOLL NRFB IN #969 SUBURBAN SHOPPER • Hold on to your Auction Books, as this might be the epitome of one of the rarest items you have ever seen as we delve into the extraordinary history of this never-before-seen item • After consulting with several Barbie experts, I can share that items such as this have been seen many years ago after being discovered by collectors. There have been Ken and Skipper dolls seen with these similar yellow tags; but they were found only with box bottoms and were still sewn to box. All accessories were found in the original packaging • What is remarkable is to see is this pristine untouched doll, still sewn to box bottom, and wearing her pak panties that were exclusive to these dressed box dolls • I believe this item was purchased from old store stock, likely a sample item used for display purposes. The tag included clearly designates it as a sample, not meant for sale. This provides insight into how Mattel initiated this process with Toy Department clerks • I cannot authenticate the box top as those that I interviewed for history on this item had never seen with this inspected “stamp” box top end flap. Box bottom and tag have been seen by Barbie experts who authenticated it for me. • Here are the details on the doll: Pristine #4 Cornsilk Blonde Ponytail is definitely old store stock mint with hair in original bands and fabulous perfect double row of pin curl bangs • Many of the dressed box dolls I have seen have this same “muted” low color appearance with bit of fade to red lips. Earring holes at ear, one ear has green which replaced pearl would cover • Face is gorgeous with hypnotic blue eyes, light smoky shadow, and brown brows. • As she is still sewn to original box bottom, I could not remove her to inspect body, but it appears mint with that unplayed feel to legs (legs need a dusting) with all finger and toe polish • Her Suburban Shopper ensemble is equally as mint with straw hat still affixed to cardboard frame and her accessories are come in sealed package with booklet • Bright yellow tag has patina of age and remnant of tape, and from the appearance of box bottom the yellow tag more than likely was removed from the underneath of the box as there is evidence of paper missing. Box bottom has one split corner • Lid is a “TM” lid marked Blond with the stamp “INSPECTED” on end of box • This is the first time I have ever seen this item offered for sale, and I know some lucky collector will treasure her for a lifetime! • Suggested $1895-$2995