As for the 1950s metal dollhouses with plastic furniture that some of us cherished as kids, Ewing says the “market is not here yet.” But as the older stuff disappears, we may see it happen.

Skinner’s Sept. 14, 1996, toy and doll auction featured a mansard roof dollhouse dating from the late-19th century. The three-story building contained the original wallpaper and faux paper parquet floors. Expected to bring $800-$1,200, the house sold for $2,185.

In many of the cases the originally collected doll house miniature products thus acquire further addition and renovations.

Like other collectible toys, condition is a critical factor. “If they’ve been heavily played with, they lose value,” says Ewing. A house with original furniture will be worth more.