Toy maker Mattel released a limited-edition doll of Queen Elizabeth II in honour of her majesty’s 96th birthday to mark 70 years since she assumed the throne.
This magnificent figurine is the very first Barbie doll to be designed after a living royal. The doll is part of Mattel’s Tribute series which was created to honour women who have made significant contributions to society or their businesses.
Photo Courtesy: Target
To commemorate the 70th anniversary of the series I Love Lucy, the firm designed a doll for the late performer Lucille Ball last year. This is the first doll created by Mattel in the likeness of a living monarch.
Photo Courtesy: Mattel
The Tribute Collection Barbie doll of Queen Elizabeth II is dressed in one of Her Majesty’s hallmark outfits, complete with her trademark coiffed hair. It symbolises the monarch’s regal style as well as her royal pedigree, wearing a beautiful white gown with a delicate floral design, a blue ribbon, silver jewellery, and of course a glittering crown. The attire, for example, is similar to the outfits the Queen wears in official pictures, and the ribbons affixed to the sash represent the Royal Family Orders.
Photo Courtesy: Mattel
The extravagant headpiece is also inspired by Queen Mary’s Fringe Tiara, which Queen Elizabeth wore on her wedding day to Prince Philip in 1947 and has since been worn by Princess Anne and Princess Beatrice. It is believed to be valued at over $9 million.
Queen Mary’s Fringe Tiara 1919
The royal Barbie even has her Majesty’s Order of the Garter, with a blue ribbon embroidered with a silver star which represents Britain’s most senior order of valour formed in the great courts of Europe during the middle ages.
Photo Courtesy: Mattel
Even the packaging is regal, featuring a representation of a throne chamber inspired by Buckingham Palace to commemorate the queen’s assumption to the throne in 1952. It also includes a doll stand for displaying the queen in many royal attitudes.
Photo Courtesy: Mattel
The packaging reflects the grandeur and significance of the doll within for enthusiasts who may wish to retain the doll in the box to maintain her collection value. The doll costs $75.99 but is temporarily out of stock owing to overwhelming demand.