Vintage Titan SL Sample Skipper Large Japan on Foot in OSS

Description

STUNNING Vintage SAMPLE SKIPPER Doll~ RARE Early 1963  Test Mrkt/ Prototype ~MINT~ Description GORGEOUS Early
1963 S/L SAMPLE SKIPPER DOLL ~MINT~  with her OSS and Japan flats Sample Skipper Dolls were the very FIRST Skippers made by Mattel before the regular issue as a market test and are referred to by some as prototypes. These dolls are rare and most difficult to find, especially in MINT or even excellent condition. They were given to Mattel employees...it is not documented whether these test Skippers were ever offered for sale to the general public. If they were, it was for a very brief time.  In addition to the sweet facial expression of early Skippers, Sample dolls have certain characteristics that set them apart from regular issue dolls, from facial qualities, type of material for the hair, hair thatching and bangs to the wide stance. The legs of Sample dolls were made of resin, have the wider stance, slightly larger feet, two rows of bangs, and some have unusual (color magic) hair colors, but also available in regular issue blonde and brunette. There are no mentionable issues with this doll. Makeup is all original, hair is thick and the body is super nice. DESCRIPTION: HAIR: gorgeous titian/red hair. It is silky, long, soft and 'stays' in place. She has NO missing plugs or cuts. She has the correct marking (SKIPPER/1963/Mattel Inc.) on the right hip. The left hip has #2. No swingy joints. No chews or gouges. All fingers and toes. There is no pink or red fade on the legs like so many Sample Skippers. This doll shows little to no playwear, but as I always state, there may be minimal scuffing just due to the age of vintage items. She has a wider stance and larger feet as a Sample doll should. Lastly, JAPAN is written on the bottom of the right foot from toe to heel, not across the toes. Only small mark on right thigh in front.  I am not a vintage Barbie or Skipper expert; just a collector. I've described the doll to the best of my ability. If I've missed anything, it is by no means intentional. I do not always mention factory flaws. The items I list are vintage and likely played with at some point in their life. The pictures are part of my description. It comes from a non-smoking home.