Original Listing Description

Listing for GREG includes custom hardwood base for the item to display. These are the fun parts about living in a once heavily industrial area. This fully pewter full size Barbie came from a collection that obtained it from the remains of a long-time pewter manufacturer in Providence RI, that has been defunct since about 2000. This company cast high end art pieces and components for countless products. The story portrayed to me was that the iconic ponytail swimsuit Barbie image was used as an in-company award within Mattel in 1998. I don't know the full production of the final result, but I would imagine it to be basically nonexistent. Executive awards in other industries tend to go for tremendous premiums, for example a styrofoam Pillsbury Doughboy they made 500 of will sell for $1500. These are prototypes of the unfinished production. No other example will exist exactly like the one for sale. I only know of 3 existing. I own two, as shown in the images. This sale is for the one on the right, without the joint lines, standing more upright, dated, etc. The earlier model has a slightly larger base and longer heels and leans forward more but they're relatively the same true-to-size scale. There are a few scuffs consistent with age. Aside from that, please note that the right side of the statuette has a yellowish tone, likely can be cleaned off, possibly just a factory material from the mold, remember this was never supposed to see the light of day. Since this is one of a kind preproduction, you'll obviously never see one exact again. But even beyond that, I doubt you'll see another version of the award again, as they basically don't exist. An incredible find for a Barbie collector, but also an incredibly piece of pop art or displayed with a Hollywood Regency or Post Modern Art decor as I've kept mine. Or, take it and auction it through a private auction house... never know the limit on a piece like this. Please feel free to ask any questions you may have about this. It originally had a base of some sort. I'd recommend drilling out the center and bolting it to a new base of choice. (Condition: Pre-Owned)

Note: This item has been sold and is no longer available. This page serves as a historical price reference for Barbie collectors and appraisers.