Gene DollsIt was originally created by New York artist Mel Odom to capture the feel of old time Hollywood screen goddesses. The Gene doll became so popular that it engendered the modern doll craze for larger-sized (15.5 inches) collectible dolls. All the dolls depict Gene Marshall in one of her famous movies or in other situations. Collectors have recently gone crazy for these dolls, including spin-off dolls of other "famous" actresses of the same era. The first three Gene dolls produced were Red Venus, Monaco and Premiere in 1995. These dolls pull a high price among collectors as they are no longer in production. Collectors can expect to pay between $200 and $300 for these dolls which is quite a lot considering they have only been around for a little over a decade. Hobbyists can tell an original doll because it only has joints in its neck, shoulders and hips. Later productions have joints in the wrists, elbows and knees so they can be posed. The dolls were initially compared to the ever popular Barbie doll, but actually appealed to a slightly different and older market. The Gene dolls were larger than Barbie and attracted older buyers who may not have intended to ever play with them. These collectors purchased the dolls as fans of Gene Marshall, not to ride in a plastic convertible. As the line took off, more dolls and then accessories were added. In 2000, the Gene series welcomed Madra Lord; in 2001 Trent Osborn premiered along with Violet Waters. By 2003, however, the producers of Gene dolls, Ashton Drake, pared the line down considerably. They felt that the line was so large, it was hard to deal with for the producers and too easy to find for less than retail for the collectors. By having fewer dolls in the line, each one would become more of a find for collectors. Some dolls were limited to only 1000 dolls total. Yet, as a result, the prices rose to about $125 per doll. In 2005, a clothing line was introduced for the newly made Simply Genes which were ready to dress. Earlier dolls were dressed in extravagant costumes that mimicked those worn in the films. These accessories cost about $25 dollars each. Paper dolls and other more expensive clothing items are also available online. For example, a collector can pick up a pink swing coat for her Gene Marshall doll for only $29. Another possible prize for the Gene doll Marshall seeker might be one of the two books written about her. The Gene by Carolyn Cook and Gene Marshall:Girl Star by Mel Odom would make a great addition to any Gene Marshall doll collection. The Gene dolls are excellent choices for mature collectors who love the glamour of old-time Hollywood. |