1923 Finger Doll

by John M.
(USA)

I have a 1923 Betty Walker finger doll. You insert two fingers thru the body for legs and insert plastic shoes on finger tips. (There was also a Billy doll to match.)

It was made in Germany with a 1923 copyright by Alma Vogt has a May 30 1922 Patent.

I can find no information or value for this doll. I would appreciate any information or value.--thanks.

Comments for 1923 Finger Doll

Average Rating

Click here to add your own comments

Mar 09, 2015
Rating

Billy and Betty walker dolls
by: Mollies

I also have these dolls in the original boxes which are round The dolls are marked Germany and the box says patented in 1922

Jan 28, 2011
Rating

1923 Finger Doll
by: Diane

From the book: COMPO DOLLS Volume II 1909-1928 by Polly & Pam Judd, page 31. A copy of an ad from 1912.

"Warning, we are sole owners of the United States Patents of "Fingy=Legs", the tiny tot. This patent covers the feature in a playting whereby the fingers of the person holding it form ther legs of the doll, figure or animal. Our rights will be fully protected, and the trade is warned against handling infringing articles.
Sample and Prices furnished on application.
Geo. Borgfeldt & Co.
16th Street at Irving Place, New York"

The picture in the ad shows a smallish doll with painted facial features and hair on a composition head, wearing a longsleeved turtle neck type shirt with hands showing and shorts. Boots are on the two fingers that make the doll walk.

Do you have a company name on your doll? Since Borgfeldt held the patent, maybe your Betty doll is by the same company. The company was founded in the 1880's and must have closed in the 1950's. Their most famous doll was the Bye-Lo Baby designed by Grace Storey Putnam. Also produced Kewpie's by Rose O'Neill.

A picture (s) added to your inquiry would be extremely helpful.

Click here to add your own comments

Join in and write your own page! It's easy to do. How? Simply click here to return to Antique doll id's.

Welcome Doll Lovers