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The Barbie Doll was invented in 1959 by Ruth Handler. For more information, see the related link below. The doll was patented in 1958 and first sold in 1959. Barbie was born (first launched) on March 9, 1959. Barbie was created by Ruth Handler. Barbie was named after Ruth Handler's daughter Barbara. Ken was named after her son, Ken. Barbie was first released for "sale" in the United States in 1959. Ken was introduced the following year, in 1960. The Barbie doll was first displayed at a New York International American Toy Fair on March 9, 1959. This is the official date of Barbie's birth, 1959. The first dolls had similar bodies -- without bendable arms or legs. The hair was thick and tight, not long nor silky as in later years. She had painted lips, eyes and lashes. I recall trading my original 1959 Barbie head for a neighbor girl's because I didn't like the hair that couldn't be styled in any way.....guess that's why some things are collectible and valuable! She was designed in 1958 and first sold in 1959. Barbie, the brain-child of Ruth Handler, was commercially patented in l958 and up and running - fully commercialized, in stores, commercial TV ads, etc., the following year. No pre-1958 Barbies exist, not even any prototypes. Her launch date by Mattel was on 9 March 1959. The Barbie doll was first sold in 1959, so she marked her 50th anniversary this year. However, if you are asking how old of a woman she is supposed to represent, the answer varies depending on what the doll's facial features are and what she is wearing. She can look as young as 16 or as old as 35. Barbie was born, March 9, 1959.