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Disney Collectors Fume as Rare Dolls Resell for Thousands Online Amidst Scalping Frenzy

A close-up image of five detailed Disney character dolls in historical costumes, with one facing Alice in Wonderland, Evil Queen, Gaston, Queen of Hearts, and Mother Gothel. The backdrop includes hands holding Mickey Mouse ears with "Disneyland" embroidered on them.
Credit: Disney, Canva

Now that the 2024 D23 Expo has concluded, Disney merchandise resellers are capitalizing on the frenzy surrounding exclusive event items, with limited-edition dolls fetching eye-popping prices online. Collectors and fans are facing a steep markup for these coveted items, with some dolls selling for thousands of dollars on secondary markets.

Related: Crack Downs On Disney Merchandise Resellers to Increase

Bob Iger stands on stage at the 2024 D23 Expo

Credit: The Walt Disney Company

Disney Resellers Cash in on Exclusive Merchandise

The D23 Expo, held to celebrate Disney’s legacy and showcase upcoming projects, is renowned for its exclusive merchandise, which often includes limited-edition collectibles. This year’s event featured a series of highly sought-after dolls and stuffed animals, each designed to commemorate classic Disney characters and moments. Due to their exclusivity and the buzz surrounding the expo, these Disney toys quickly became the target of resellers looking to profit from the high demand.

Online marketplaces are currently flooded with listings for the D23 Expo exclusive dolls and stuffed animals, with prices ranging from a hundred to over $3,500 for certain rare figures. The disparity between the original retail price and these inflated resell values has sparked a mix of frustration and disbelief among Disney fans and collectors.

A collection of Disney merchandise dolls depicting various characters from Disney movies, including princesses and villains, arranged against a dark blue background with fireworks. The right side of the image shows close-up views of some characters, showcasing their detailed costumes.

Credit: Disney, Canva

Is Reselling Wrong?

The toys in question feature intricate designs and limited production runs, making them highly desirable among collectors. However, their exclusivity and the limited quantities available at the expo have led to a competitive market, with resellers leveraging the scarcity to drive up prices.

A screenshot of an online marketplace displaying various collectible Disney items. Products include teddy bears, dolls, and boxed figurines with prices ranging from $950.00 to $3,500.00. Each listing has a picture, price, and shipping information.

Credit: Disney

Some of the rare items include the Donald Duck with Teddy Bear Steiff Doll, the Winnie the Pooh Steiff Doll, and the Midnight Masquerade Doll sets. The practice of reselling limited-edition items at exorbitant prices has been a concern for fans and event organizers alike, as it often means that true enthusiasts and collectors struggle to acquire the items at their original prices.

In response to the resale market, some fans have taken to social media to share their disappointment and advocate for fairer practices. There are calls for Disney to explore measures to prevent scalping and ensure that exclusive items remain accessible to genuine collectors and enthusiasts.

@princesschrisreturns

Replying to @Jean Li Spears #greenscreen #d23 #d23expo #disney #disneydoll #disneydolls #disneydesignerdolls #disneydesignercollection #dolltalk #dollcollector #dollcollection

♬ original sound – princesschrisreturns

As the resale market continues to evolve, it remains to be seen how Disney and other event organizers will address the issue of exclusivity and reselling. For now, collectors are left navigating a marketplace where their passion for Disney is met with the challenge of inflated prices and limited availability.

The excitement surrounding D23 Expo exclusives highlights the strong demand for Disney memorabilia, but it also serves as a reminder of the broader challenges faced by collectors in an era where high demand and limited supply often lead to steep price hikes.

About Eva Miller

Eva was born and raised in the beautiful state of Oregon but has since relocated and lives in New York City. Since she was young, Eva has loved to perform in musicals, especially Disney ones! Through performing, Disney’s music became the soundtrack of her childhood. Today, Eva loves to write about all the exciting happenings for the Walt Disney Company. In her free time, Eva loves to travel, spend time in nature, and go to Broadway shows. Her favorite Disney movie is 'Lilo and Stitch,' and her favorite Park is Disney's Animal Kingdom.

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