A new Caroller set, perhaps for the last time.
A couple weeks ago I came across something that astounded me, an unopened box of Carollers. Join me in this video as we carefully unbox a collection that deserves its own condition level: New.
Current Featured CollectionTwo Decades and the Chorus Continues:
In July 2006, the Doll Shop was busy creating the final Simpich Character Dolls to ever be produced. To day, 20 years later, we are still keeping the magic alive.
This Weeks Featured Designs
Browse three handpicked pieces
Condition: Pristine
McNair and Friend from the Caroler Collection presents a distinguished older gentleman in a purple wool coat and gray hat, holding a small Cairn terrier dog in his arms. The charming ambiguity of which character is “McNair” and which is “the Friend” adds a whimsical touch to this piece. Crafted with meticulous detail, McNair and Friend brings warmth and character to the Caroler scene, embodying the endearing companionship of the season.
Condition: Excellent | Simpich Caroller – Flute Player (Core Seven) | Vintage Edition
The Flute Player is one of the original Core Seven Carollers and remains the hardest of the seven to find today. His tall, slender design and delicate hands in flute pose made him one of the most fragile early Simpich figures—resulting in far fewer surviving examples than the other classic Carollers.
Dressed in his vibrant green coat, layered scarf, and signature cap, the Flute Player brings movement and charm to the Caroller line. His expressive posture captures the moment mid-song, adding a sense of life and rhythm to any display.
Beautiful, rare, and unmistakably Simpich, the Flute Player is an essential addition for collectors seeking to complete the Core Seven.
Condition: Excellent
Whether paired with other figures from the collection or displayed on his own, Dickens Dog brings a heartwarming presence to your home. Celebrate the spirit of Christmas with this loyal companion and add him to your collection today!
Simpich Character Doll Shop
Latest Additions
New finds are listed often, this is the perfect place to stay up to date with our inventory.
President Lincoln — Robert Simpich’s Personal Collection Piece
Heirloom Condition | Signed by Robert Simpich | NH #34 | 1984 New Head Edition | From Robert & Jan Simpich’s Personal Collection
This is one of the most remarkable Simpich historical pieces I have ever had the privilege to offer.
President Lincoln was one of Robert Simpich’s most deeply studied and personally meaningful designs. Robert spent much of his life researching and admiring the man who led our nation through its darkest chapter, and that reverence is felt in every detail of this piece. Lincoln is shown at his inauguration, standing with quiet dignity beside a small table and Bible, a powerful symbol of the weight and solemnity of the office he was about to carry.
Robert first created a rendition of Lincoln in the 1950s, but he would take nearly twenty years before returning to the design in its mature Simpich Character Doll form. When President Lincoln was officially introduced in 1983, Robert approached the piece with extraordinary care, studying Lincoln’s likeness through paintings, photographs, and historical references made during Lincoln’s lifetime. The result was a design that reflected not only Robert’s skill as a sculptor, but also the deep gratitude both Robert and Jan Simpich felt for America, and for the freedom that allowed them to chase their creative dreams.
What makes this particular Lincoln especially fascinating is the story behind the head design. After the 1983 introduction, Robert was given the opportunity to study a death mask of Abraham Lincoln himself. For a sculptor working in three dimensions, that kind of reference offered a completely different understanding of Lincoln’s face. With that new context, Robert redesigned the Lincoln head in 1984.
That makes the early President Lincoln pieces one of the most interesting special edition variations the Simpich family ever produced. Although the full edition was limited to 1,000 numbered pieces, the 1983 examples appear to be the only ones made with the original head design. Our best estimate is that roughly 10–20% of the total edition feature that original 1983 sculpt, while the remaining 80–90% include the updated 1984 head design.
And then there is this piece.
On the bottom of the stand, this Lincoln is marked “1984 NH #34” and is signed by Robert Simpich. “NH” almost certainly refers to the New Head edition, making this a very early example of the redesigned Lincoln sculpt. Notably, there is no standard total edition numbering written on the base. I want to be transparent: I am not certain exactly what that means. It may have been part of a small artist-proof-like group created for the new head design before Robert returned to the main edition numbering. It may also have been included within the 1,000-piece edition, but kept without the standard numbering because Robert reserved it for his own collection.
What we do know is what matters most: this was Robert Simpich’s personal President Lincoln, kept in his and Jan’s own collection, signed by the artist, and preserved in Heirloom Condition.
The piece itself is a beautiful and deeply respectful example of Simpich historical storytelling. Lincoln stands in his black formal coat, with his hand held near his chest, his face sculpted with the thoughtful intensity and burdened wisdom so closely associated with him. Beside him rests the Bible on a small wooden table, adding both visual balance and historical meaning to the scene. The sculpt, tailoring, woodwork, and overall presentation all speak to the care and reverence Robert brought to this design.
For a Simpich collector, this is not simply a rare President Lincoln. It is a piece tied directly to Robert’s own hand, his own research, his own evolving artistic process, and his personal collection. Between the signature, the NH #34 marking, the 1984 redesigned head, and the connection to Robert and Jan Simpich themselves, this is one of those pieces that belongs in the highest category of Simpich collecting.
A truly exceptional President Lincoln, offered in Heirloom Condition, with a provenance and story that would be nearly impossible to duplicate.
Simpich Storybook Collection
Limited Edition #61 of 1,500 | Pristine Condition
Few storybook characters are as instantly recognizable—or as deeply loved—as Anne Shirley of Anne of Green Gables. With her bright red braids, freckles, vivid imagination, and unmistakable determination, Anne has delighted generations of readers, and this charming Simpich design captures her personality beautifully.
This Anne of Green Gables come with a print of a sketch Jan Simpich created prior to designing the Simpich Character Doll. Its fun to get a little window in the creative process of Jan Simpich, as many of the design elements in the drawing are reflected in her final design. This is also a Limited Edition of 500.
Seated atop a rustic shipping crate, Anne appears ready for the journey that will carry her into a completely new life. She holds a copy of Tennyson close to her heart, while a wonderfully textured carpetbag rests across her lap. Her straw hat, lace-up boots, patterned dress, and carefully layered fabrics give the piece a warm, handmade quality, while the barrel and weathered wooden platform complete the sense of arrival and adventure.
The details throughout the design are especially delightful. Anne’s expressive green eyes, hopeful smile, scattered freckles, and long red braid immediately bring the beloved character to life. Even the patchwork accent on her apron and the richly woven fibers of her bag add to the storytelling, reflecting the humble but spirited young girl at the heart of Lucy Maud Montgomery’s classic novel.
This example is Limited Edition #61 of 1,500 and remains in Pristine Condition. It is a joyful and beautifully realized addition to the Simpich Storybook Collection—perfect for collectors who appreciate classic literature, memorable characters, and the warmth and personality found throughout the finest Simpich designs.
Simpich American History Collection
Limited Edition #10 of 250 | Heirloom Condition | Signed by the Artist, Reg Simpich
Dimensions: 9in wide x 8in deep x 10in tall
When I first envisioned this patriotic collection, The Spirit of ’76 was the piece that felt almost impossible to find. Few Simpich designs capture the courage, sacrifice, and hopeful determination behind the founding of the United States quite as powerfully as this remarkable tableau.
Inspired by the enduring image of three musicians marching beneath the American flag, the design reflects not only the ideals that motivated the Founding Fathers, but also the resolve of the ordinary citizens who fought beside them. They had no guarantees and no certain vision of what the new nation would become—only the conviction that liberty was worth defending and the hope of creating a “more perfect union.”
Reg Simpich approached the piece with extraordinary ambition. The three figures move forward together—a drummer, a fifer, and an elder patriot—while the early American flag appears to wave above them. In speaking with Reg about the design, he explained that porcelain made many of its most delicate details possible, particularly the thin, flowing flag captured as though it were moving in the wind.
The sculpted terrain, scattered equipment, period clothing, and expressive faces give the scene a wonderful sense of movement and storytelling. Viewed from every angle, it feels less like a group of individual figures and more like a single historic moment brought to life.
Its rarity is equally significant. Only 250 examples were ever produced, placing The Spirit of ’76 among the smallest limited editions in the history of the Simpich Character Dolls. This exceptionally early #10 of 250 is also signed by Reg Simpich and remains in Heirloom Condition, making it an especially important example of an already elusive design.
A centerpiece of the American History Collection, The Spirit of ’76 is a stirring tribute to the courage, uncertainty, and enduring hope at the heart of the American story.
The Country Doctor – Simpich Historic Originals | #178 | Pristine Condition
The Simpich Country Doctor is a wonderful tribute to the trusted small-town physician of early American life. With a warm expression, spectacles, and a neatly tailored vest and bow tie, this piece captures the character and charm of a doctor making his rounds with dignity, kindness, and good humor.
One of the most distinctive details of the figure is the open medical bag at his feet, filled with carefully sculpted instruments and supplies. In his hand, he holds a small bottle, adding to the storytelling of the piece and bringing the scene to life. From the doctor’s expressive face to the finely detailed clothing and accessories, this figure beautifully reflects the craftsmanship and personality found throughout the Simpich Historic Originals collection.
This example is numbered #178 and is offered in Pristine Condition, making it a rare and meaningful addition to any Simpich or American history collection.
Details:
Collection: Simpich Historic Originals
Piece: The Country Doctor
Production Number: #178
Condition: Pristine
Availability: Rare Collectible Piece
Condition: Pristine | Ultra Rare
The final design in the beloved Simpich Carolers Collection, released only a few months before the original business closed its doors in 2006. The Organ Grinder has become nearly legendary among collectors, being so elusive and nearly impossible to find. This unique piece captures the classic charm of a Victorian street performer, with the Organ Grinder dressed warmly in a wool coat, holding a detailed organ topped with a cheerful monkey.
This rare figure is a tribute to the legacy of Simpich artistry, embodying the nostalgia and spirit of the Caroler Collection and making it an essential piece for collectors.
Beau — Confederate Soldier
Simpich American History Collection
Condition: Heirloom
Beau is a Simpich Character Doll from the American History Collection, depicting a Confederate soldier from the Civil War era. The piece is presented in a gray uniform with yellow trim, cap, bedroll, satchel, canteen, and rifle, all arranged with the careful costuming and accessory detail collectors expect from Simpich historical designs.
The details are especially strong on this example. The red bedroll across the shoulder gives the piece a striking visual presence, while the uniform, CSA belt plate, canteen, haversack, and rifle all add to the period presentation. His expression has the classic Simpich storytelling quality, giving the figure a reflective, almost uncertain feel rather than a triumphant one.
For collectors working to complete the American History Collection, Beau remains an important and increasingly difficult piece to locate. This example presents beautifully, with strong color, clean costuming, and excellent overall display appeal.
Condition: Pristine | Produced in limited numbers about 200 were made This piece is #68 | Designed and signed by Reg Simpich
he American Civil War remains one of the darkest chapters in our nation’s history. Yet from that terrible conflict came emancipation—a defining step toward extending the promise of liberty and the principle that “all men are created equal.”
InFreeman, designer Reg Simpich sought to capture a single, powerful moment: the joy of a man whose bondage has ended and whose chains can no longer hold him. Every detail contributes to that story, from the handcrafted shackles and broken lengths of chain to the figure’s uplifted face, open arms, and unmistakable expression of relief and celebration.
Joy is a theme found throughout the Simpich Character Dolls collection, but few pieces express it with the emotional power ofFreeman. It is a thoughtful and deeply human design—one that acknowledges a painful history while centering the dignity, freedom, and hope represented by emancipation.
Details for Collectors
AlthoughFreemancarries a stated edition of 800, I have serious doubts that the full edition was ever completed. Based on how rarely this piece appears, I believe the actual production may have been much closer toYoung Lincoln, a piece believed to have had a production of approximately 200.
Whatever the final number may have been,Freemanis unquestionably one of the more difficult Simpich Character Dolls to locate. A piece in this remarkable condition may truly represent a one-time opportunity. This is an exceptionally rare design and a particularly outstanding example.
Robert Simpich Limited Edition “Yankee Doodle” — 1985
Edition: 166 of 500 | Condition: Excellent | Extremely Rare
This 1985 limited edition “Yankee Doodle” captures Robert Simpich’s unmistakable blend of humor, patriotism, and sculptural artistry. Depicting the spirited Revolutionary-era figure in his proud blue coat and tricorn hat, this piece radiates the joy and character that define Simpich’s finest work.
From the lively posture to the gleam of pride on his face — and even the loyal dog at his feet — every detail tells a story of American optimism and charm. Like much of Robert’s work, Yankee Doodle transforms a familiar piece of folklore into something entirely his own: full of heart, wit, and a love for storytelling in form.
Created as part of a strictly limited run of only 500 pieces, this example is number 166, placing it among the earliest castings in the series. Each sculpture was hand-painted and finished in the Simpich studio, ensuring that no two are exactly alike.
Nearly four decades later, Yankee Doodle remains one of the most distinctive and difficult-to-find examples from the early Simpich limited edition series — a joyful testament to Robert Simpich’s gift for blending American history and artistry into enduring collectible form.
Certified Simpich
Every Simpich Character Doll we rehome goes through a rigorous inspection, authentication, and in some cases restoration. So that you know you are getting an authentic Simpich Character Doll ready to warm your home for years to come.
About Toby Simpich
General Manager of Simpich Family Traditions
Hello, and welcome to Simpich.com, the home for all of my family's artwork. My grandparents Bob and Jan Simpich started the Simpich Character Dolls in 1952, and since then the Simpich Family has only grown and expanded their creative legacy. From my father David Simpich's marionette productions, to my brother Kemper Simpich's landscape photography — I'm so proud to share it all here on Simpich.com.
I live in Woodland Park, just west of Colorado Springs, with my wife Kinsey. I've been working in the family business since 2009, when I took up selling concessions outside my dad's Marionette theatre in Old Colorado City. Since then I've worked to sell tickets to his shows, sell the fine art by landscape photography by Kemper Simpich and paintings of Robert Simpich, and of course the Simpich Character Dolls. I've rehomed thousands of these characters in my attempt to keep the legacy of my grandparents alive. If you are interested in learning more about any aspect of the Simpich Family's legacy, reach out using the form below.
If you would like to explore my photo and video work, check out my website!