The Simpich
Santas Collection
The Simpich Santas Collection
Joy has always been at the center of the Simpich Character Dolls, and nowhere is that joy clearer than in the Simpich Santas. Although early experiments date back to the 1962, the collection truly began in the mid-1980s with Santa with Toy Bag—the only Santa ever placed into general production.
Every Santa that followed, from 1986 through 2006, was created as an artist’s proof or limited edition, marking two decades of evolving creativity. These pieces culminated in the final Simpich Character Doll ever designed, bringing the Santa Collection—and the Doll Shop era—to a meaningful close.
Featured Collection:
The Simpich Santas is the current featured collection of our January tradition. Throughout this week, select pieces are offered at our best pricing of the year as a thank-you to our collectors.
Please note: All Santas will return to standard values on January 22nd
Condition: Pristine | Limited Edition of 1000 | Two–Piece Set
#556/1000
Santa Takes a Break and Jingle is one of the rarest and most historically significant sets in the entire Simpich Santa Series. Santa Takes a Break was the very first Limited Edition Santa ever produced, with only 1,000 sets created—an extraordinarily small number for a piece released nearly 40 years ago. While the original production was 1,000, the modern population is unknown; what is certain is that far fewer remain today, making surviving sets like this one exceptionally desirable among collectors.
This charming tableau captures a quiet, human moment in Santa’s long Christmas Eve journey. Santa rests on a bench in his suspenders and slippers, pipe in hand, enjoying a well-earned pause. Beside him stands Jingle, his loyal elf, proudly holding a beautifully wrapped present—ever ready for the next round of holiday deliveries.
Designed as a cohesive two–piece set, Santa and Jingle embody the warmth, humor, and artistry that define the earliest Simpich limited editions. Individually, each figure is rare; together, they become an iconic duo cherished for both their storytelling and their place in Simpich history.
Don’t miss the opportunity to bring home this remarkable set—an enduring celebration of festive charm, craftsmanship, and the legacy of the Simpich Santa tradition.
Condition: Heirloom | Extremely Limited Production | 1977
A Special Note: After reviewing Jan Simpich’s Little Red Book, we’ve confirmed that this piece is not the same design as the later Santa with Toby Bag. While the connection between the two designs is unmistakable, Jan’s notes clarify that this early version was produced only in very small numbers—likely just a handful.
This Santa is historically significant: it was the very first Simpich Santa ever produced in more than single-digit quantities, marking a pivotal moment in the evolution of the Simpich Christmas line. Yet despite this milestone, extraordinarily few of these early Santas exist today. My best estimate—based on years of experience with the Simpich archives and marketplace—is that around fifty may have been made, though that remains an educated guess.
Santa stands with a warm twinkle in his eye, accompanied by a beautifully detailed toy bag presented on its own separate base—an unusual and charming feature seldom seen in later designs. Created during the late 1970s and early 1980s, this piece reflects a period when Bob and Jan Simpich were actively experimenting with concepts that would eventually culminate in the official Santa with Toy Bag, released around 1981.
This early design showcases a delightful array of toys spilling from the bag, capturing the whimsy, craftsmanship, and storytelling that define Simpich artistry. Santa is dressed in his classic red suit with intricate detailing, embodying the spirit of generosity and joy.
A true rarity in every sense, Santa and Toy Bag is more than a collectible—it is a cornerstone of Simpich history and a celebration of timeless Christmas tradition. Add this extraordinary piece to your collection and cherish its legacy for years to come.
Condition: Heirloom Condition | Limited Edition of 500 | Introduced in 2004
#300/500
This extraordinary limited edition figure (#300 of 500) is one of the rarest Santas in the series, designed by Master Puppeteer David Simpich. With only 500 pieces ever made.
Dressed in a long, fur-lined coat, Star Keeper Santa carries a staff crowned with a star, symbolizing his role as a guardian of the night’s guiding light. An owl perches on his shoulder, offering wisdom, while a playful squirrel rests at his feet, adding a whimsical touch to this enchanting scene.
From the intricate design of his star-topped staff to the fine details of the animals by his side, the craftsmanship of this piece is truly exceptional. Star Keeper Santa is a rare treasure that will elevate any collection.
Browse All Simpich Santas:
The Early Santa’s
In 1962, while still living in Manitou Springs, Robert Simpich crafted what is believed to be his very first attempt at a Simpich Santa. The elusive “Manitou Santa” is so rare that its true history remains wrapped in mystery—no one knows whether more than one was ever made, or if any examples have survived to this day.
That early experiment marked the quiet beginning of a legacy. Over the next fifteen years, Robert continued to explore and refine different concepts and designs, searching for the spirit and form that would eventually define the Simpich Santa. Yet no piece reached completion until 1977, when the first official Simpich Santa emerged—ushering in a new era for the Simpich Character Dolls and setting the stage for decades of beloved Christmas artistry.
Condition: Heirloom | Extremely Limited Production | 1977
A Special Note: After reviewing Jan Simpich’s Little Red Book, we’ve confirmed that this piece is not the same design as the later Santa with Toby Bag. While the connection between the two designs is unmistakable, Jan’s notes clarify that this early version was produced only in very small numbers—likely just a handful.
This Santa is historically significant: it was the very first Simpich Santa ever produced in more than single-digit quantities, marking a pivotal moment in the evolution of the Simpich Christmas line. Yet despite this milestone, extraordinarily few of these early Santas exist today. My best estimate—based on years of experience with the Simpich archives and marketplace—is that around fifty may have been made, though that remains an educated guess.
Santa stands with a warm twinkle in his eye, accompanied by a beautifully detailed toy bag presented on its own separate base—an unusual and charming feature seldom seen in later designs. Created during the late 1970s and early 1980s, this piece reflects a period when Bob and Jan Simpich were actively experimenting with concepts that would eventually culminate in the official Santa with Toy Bag, released around 1981.
This early design showcases a delightful array of toys spilling from the bag, capturing the whimsy, craftsmanship, and storytelling that define Simpich artistry. Santa is dressed in his classic red suit with intricate detailing, embodying the spirit of generosity and joy.
A true rarity in every sense, Santa and Toy Bag is more than a collectible—it is a cornerstone of Simpich history and a celebration of timeless Christmas tradition. Add this extraordinary piece to your collection and cherish its legacy for years to come.
Introduced in 1981 | Estimated Fewer Than 3,500 Produced | A Foundational Simpich Santa
The Santa with Toy Bag holds a special place in Simpich history. While a handful of Santas were created before him—often in extremely limited runs or as early prototypes—this joyful figure is the first Simpich Santa ever produced in notable numbers, marking the true beginning of the Simpich Santa tradition.
Standing proudly with his toy-filled bag and winding scroll, this Santa embodies everything collectors love about the early Simpich era: a warm, hand-sculpted expression, rich red costuming, and Jan and Bob’s unmistakable storytelling touch. Though production numbers were never formally recorded, the short manufacturing window places the total for this design at well under 3,500 pieces.
What makes this even more remarkable is that—decades after production ended—its availability today is often no better than the numbered Limited Editions that followed. Many of these early Santas have long since found permanent homes in family collections, making high-quality examples like this one increasingly difficult to find.
This Santa with Toy Bag stands as a foundational piece in the Simpich Santa lineage: the design that bridged the early, experimental years with the celebrated Limited Edition Santas that came in the 1990s and 2000s. With his cheerful stance and overflowing bag of toys, he remains one of the most iconic and beloved Simpich creations.
The Limited Editions Begin
With Santa Takes a Break, the story of the Simpich Santas begins to gather real momentum. This design marked a turning point—the very first Limited Edition Simpich Santa—and signaled the start of a new era for the collection.
Collectors immediately responded to its charm: Santa, momentarily resting from his Christmas labors, captured in a rare moment of warmth and humanity. The piece stood out not only for its limited production, but for the deeper storytelling woven into its pose, expression, and costume.
Santa Takes a Break set the tone for everything that followed, establishing a model for future limited editions and paving the way for the increasingly ambitious Santa designs of the coming decades.
Condition: Pristine | Limited Edition of 1000 | Two–Piece Set
#556/1000
Santa Takes a Break and Jingle is one of the rarest and most historically significant sets in the entire Simpich Santa Series. Santa Takes a Break was the very first Limited Edition Santa ever produced, with only 1,000 sets created—an extraordinarily small number for a piece released nearly 40 years ago. While the original production was 1,000, the modern population is unknown; what is certain is that far fewer remain today, making surviving sets like this one exceptionally desirable among collectors.
This charming tableau captures a quiet, human moment in Santa’s long Christmas Eve journey. Santa rests on a bench in his suspenders and slippers, pipe in hand, enjoying a well-earned pause. Beside him stands Jingle, his loyal elf, proudly holding a beautifully wrapped present—ever ready for the next round of holiday deliveries.
Designed as a cohesive two–piece set, Santa and Jingle embody the warmth, humor, and artistry that define the earliest Simpich limited editions. Individually, each figure is rare; together, they become an iconic duo cherished for both their storytelling and their place in Simpich history.
Don’t miss the opportunity to bring home this remarkable set—an enduring celebration of festive charm, craftsmanship, and the legacy of the Simpich Santa tradition.
Condition: Pristine
#297/1000
Santa Takes a Break captures a rare moment of calm for the holiday icon. This limited edition Santa is depicted sitting on a bench, smoking a pipe, dressed in his casual attire of suspenders and cozy slippers. The piece radiates charm, offering a glimpse of Santa’s more relaxed side after a busy season. A delightful addition to any collection, this figure embodies the Simpich tradition of storytelling through intricate detail and masterful craftsmanship.
Condition: Pristine | Limitied Edition of 1000 | Introduced in 1990
#909/1000
This exquisite limited edition figure (#909 of 1000) beautifully captures a heartwarming moment of reflection and storytelling during the holiday season.
Dressed in a charming vest, Santa stands proudly, holding a Bible in one hand, ready to share the beloved tale of Christmas. His warm smile and twinkling eyes invite all to gather around and listen, embodying the spirit of joy and togetherness that defines this special time of year.
At his feet, a playful cat adds a delightful touch to the scene, symbolizing the warmth and comfort of home during the holidays. The intricate details of Santa’s attire and the serene expression on his face showcase the exceptional craftsmanship that Simpich dolls are renowned for, from the meticulous stitching to the lifelike features. Each element is thoughtfully designed, making this piece a treasured addition to any collection.
Whether displayed as a centerpiece during your holiday gatherings or as part of your cherished Santa collection, Santa Reads The Christmas Story is sure to bring joy and inspire the spirit of giving and reflection in your home. Celebrate the magic of Christmas with this exquisite representation of Simpich artistry—add Santa Reads The Christmas Story to your collection today!
The 1990s:
Following the success of Santa with Toy Bag and Santa Takes a Break, Bob and Jan Simpich entered the 1990s with a renewed sense of creativity and momentum. Their early Santa designs had struck a chord with collectors, revealing just how much room there was to explore the character’s warmth, whimsy, and storytelling potential.
Throughout the decade, the Simpich workshop became a place of artistic curiosity, where the Christmas icon was re-imagined again and again—sometimes playfully, sometimes reverently, always with the unmistakable hand-crafted charm that defined the Simpich style. New Santas appeared with fresh poses, richer costuming, and deeper narrative touches, each one expanding the world that Bob and Jan had begun shaping years before.
By the end of the 1990s, the Simpich Santa had grown far beyond a single figure. It had become a series, a tradition, and a cornerstone of the Simpich legacy—laying the foundation for the ambitious designs that would follow in the years to come.1990s.
Condition: Pristine | Limited Edition of 2,500
#501/2500
O’ Be Joyful beautifully captures Santa and Mrs. Claus in a lively holiday dance, hand in hand and sharing a single base as they celebrate the warmth of the Christmas season. Santa, dressed in his festive red vest, radiates cheer, while Mrs. Claus mirrors his joy with equal charm and elegance.
Created in honor of Bob and Jan Simpich’s 40th wedding anniversary, this limited-edition piece stands as a heartfelt tribute to their enduring love and creative partnership. And indeed, this piece embodies that partnership in a special way: Old Nick was designed by Bob, while Mrs. Nick was designed by Jan, making O’ Be Joyful one of the rare designs in which both artists’ hands are represented together in a single composition.
With only 2,500 made—and far fewer surviving today—this piece carries both artistic and sentimental significance. Its storytelling, movement, and craftsmanship come together to celebrate not only Christmas joy but the legacy of two artists whose collaboration shaped the world of Simpich Character Dolls.
A delightful and meaningful addition to any collection, O’ Be Joyful is a testament to love, artistry, and the timeless spirit of the season.
Condition: Heirloom | Restored by David Simpich | Limited Edition of 2,000 | introduced in 1993
A breathtaking celebration of old-world Christmas charm, this two-piece limited-edition set showcases the Simpich Family’s storytelling at its finest.
Victorian Santa (No.971/2000) stands regally in his deep red Victorian coat, trimmed with lush white fur and embroidered accents that shimmer softly against the velvet. His expression is warm and wise, framed by an intricately sculpted beard that reflects the unmistakable artistry of Bob and Jan Simpich. In one hand, he extends a beautifully crafted doll—its tiny face and dress mirroring the same level of care found in the larger works. At his side hangs a classic leather bag bursting with Christmas treasures: evergreen boughs, bright berries, and toys peeking out with nostalgic charm.
Beside him, Madolyn (No.548/2000) radiates innocence and winter cheer. Jan Simpich designed this piece especially to go with Bobs Santa. Wrapped in an elegant pink coat with cream mittens and a plush white muff, she gazes up at Santa with pure delight. Her golden curls, rosy cheeks, and the delicate red roses at her neckline capture the joy and anticipation of childhood at Christmastime. This peice has a pink outfit which makes it a rarer design.
Together, the pair creates a scene rich in storytelling—one that feels lifted from the pages of a Victorian Christmas tale. With only 2,000 sets ever produced, these pieces embody the rarity and craftsmanship collectors treasure. Every detail—from the textures of the fabrics to the sculpted expressions—speaks to the heart of Simpich artistry: warmth, imagination, and timeless tradition.
Whether displayed as the centerpiece of a holiday collection or cherished as a family keepsake, this set brings the spirit of Christmas to life in a way only Simpich Character Dolls can.
Condition: Pristine | Introduced in 1995 | Limited Edition of 2,500
Apple of His Eye Santa captures one of the most tender moments in the entire Simpich Santa Series. Dressed in his cozy nightshirt, Santa lifts a cheerful baby high into the air, both faces glowing with pure delight. Robert Simpich designed this piece to embody the joy of Christmas morning—an emotion he worked tirelessly to express in many of his Santa designs. The result is a heartwarming celebration of family, innocence, and the simple moments that make the season magical.
This piece also stands apart for its unique material composition. Unlike traditional Simpich figures, this Santa was crafted from an almost porcelain-like resin that absorbs paint rather than forming a vibrant outer shell. While the effect gives the piece a soft, luminous quality, it also makes it extremely fragile. Over the past several decades, many examples have been damaged, making pristine surviving pieces remarkably difficult to source in the 2020s—despite the original edition size of 2,500.
With its emotional storytelling, graceful sculpting, and unusual place in Simpich production history, Apple of His Eye Santa remains a beloved treasure for collectors. A beautiful reminder of joy, childhood wonder, and the heart of Christmas, this rare piece is a truly meaningful addition to any Simpich collection.
Designed by Robert Simpich & Jan Simpich | Introduced in 1997 | Limited Edition 1,500
Created in 1997, this charming pair brings together the talents of both Bob and Jan Simpich in one heartwarming holiday scene. Old Nick, designed by Bob, radiates warmth and good cheer—his expressive smile, classic red suit, and joyful gesture capturing Santa in a moment of pure delight. Standing beside him is Mrs. Nick, beautifully designed by Jan, offering a tray of freshly baked Christmas treats with the gentle kindness that defined so many of her most beloved pieces.
Together, the two create a perfect snapshot of holiday tradition: Santa mid-laugh, Mrs. Nick sharing her homemade goodies, and both figures dressed in rich red velvets and timeless Victorian styling. Their poses and expressions interact naturally, giving the feeling of a shared story—one that invites joy into any home during the Christmas season.
With only limited production in 1997, the Old Nick & Mrs. Nick set has become a treasured duo among collectors. Their combined artistry reflects the very best of the Simpich Family’s craft, blending warmth, personality, and exquisite handmade detail into two unforgettable characters.
Condition: Pristine | Limited Edition of 1,000 | Introduced in 1999
Dear Santa is one of the most personal and story-rich pieces in the entire Simpich Santa Collection. Dressed in classic red velvet trimmed with soft white fur, Santa pauses mid-journey to read a handwritten letter pulled from his mailbag—a quiet, intimate moment rarely captured so thoughtfully in Santa design.
What makes this piece truly special is the story behind the letter itself. The note Santa reads was written by Bob and Jan Simpich’s granddaughter, transforming this sculpture from a holiday figure into a genuine family keepsake. The message—simple, sincere, and filled with childlike faith—reflects the heart of Christmas and the values that shaped the Simpich legacy across generations.
Every detail reinforces the narrative: the weight of the mailbag slung over Santa’s shoulder, the tiny letters peeking out marked “Mail – North Pole,” and Santa’s gentle, attentive expression as he reads. Even the bell at his cap and the polished wooden base contribute to the sense that this moment is both timeless and deeply personal.
Handcrafted and hand-finished, Dear Santa stands as a celebration of belief, innocence, and the enduring magic of Christmas letters written with hope. Limited to just 1,000 pieces and offered here in pristine condition, it is a standout Santa for collectors who value story, family connection, and the deeper meaning behind the season.
A truly special addition to any Simpich Santa collection—and one of the most heartfelt designs ever created.
The 2,000s:
As the final years of the Doll Shop approached, a renewed creative energy swept through the studio—one that brought the Simpich Santas back to the forefront of artistic focus. During this period, Bob Simpich continued to refine and expand the collection with fresh ideas and deeper narrative detail, while David Simpich stepped into the design process as well, contributing his own imaginative interpretations of the beloved Christmas figure.
What emerged from these closing years was nothing short of remarkable. Some of the most iconic and sought-after Simpich creations—pieces that define not only the Santa Collection, but the entire legacy of the Simpich Character Dolls—were born during this time. These final designs capture a sense of mastery, storytelling, and craftsmanship that had been decades in the making, standing as a testament to the family’s enduring artistry even as the workshop’s chapter drew to a close.
Condition: Pristine | Introduced in 2001 | Limited Edition of 2,500
#107/2500
This limited edition figure (#107 of 2500) captures the essence of a dedicated woodsman, embodying the spirit of adventure and discovery during the holiday season.
Dressed in rustic, earthy tones, The Seeker Santa carries a beautifully crafted Christmas tree over one shoulder. His other hand holds up a glowing lantern, symbolizing hope and guidance as he navigates through the winter woods. The intricate details of his attire, from the textured fabric of his coat to the lifelike foliage of the tree, showcase the craftsmanship that Simpich dolls are known for.
With a warm, inviting expression, The Seeker Santa embodies the spirit of exploration and the joy of the season. Whether displayed as a centerpiece during the holidays or as part of your cherished collection year-round, he is sure to inspire wonder and joy in all who see him.
Condition: Pristine | Limited Edition of 1,200 | Introduced in 2005
#661/1200
Even a Mouse Santa (#661 of 1200) is an exceptional limited edition figure by Master Puppeteer David Simpich, showcasing his unmatched artistry and imagination. Dressed in traditional holiday attire, Santa holds a plate of cookies, with a whimsical mouse munching on one, adding a playful touch that celebrates the joy of sharing during the holiday season. The intricate details of Santa’s attire and the charming expressions of both Santa and the mouse highlight the remarkable craftsmanship that Simpich dolls are known for. This piece is not just a decoration but a cherished work of art that embodies the spirit of generosity and Christmas magic.
Condition: Pristine | Limited Edition of 1,200 | Introduced in 2004
Good News Santa bursts with excitement—literally! Santa leaps into the air, hat lifted high, his entire posture radiating celebration. His joyful expression and exuberant movement capture the pure magic and wonder of the Christmas season. He stands atop a sculpted base inscribed with the phrase “Good News of Great Joy,” a fitting tribute to the message at the heart of this design.
Throughout the Santa series, I’ve often discussed how joy is one of the most important through-lines in Bob Simpich’s work—and in the legacy of the Simpich Family as a whole. This piece brings that theme to completion. Good News Santaisn’t just joyful; he proclaims joy. In many ways, he stands as Bob’s celebration of the season’s central message: joy shared, joy received, and joy overflowing.
From his vibrant red suit to the bright twinkle in his eye, every detail of this Santa brings the excitement of holiday tidings to life. Produced as a limited edition of only 1,200, this late-era design has become increasingly rare and is cherished by collectors who seek the final chapter in Bob’s joyful Santa storytelling.
A standout addition to any Christmas display, Good News Santa spreads warmth, delight, and the timeless proclamation of “good news of great joy.” Bring him home today and celebrate the heart of the season.
Condition: Heirloom Condition | Limited Edition of 500 | Introduced in 2004
#300/500
This extraordinary limited edition figure (#300 of 500) is one of the rarest Santas in the series, designed by Master Puppeteer David Simpich. With only 500 pieces ever made.
Dressed in a long, fur-lined coat, Star Keeper Santa carries a staff crowned with a star, symbolizing his role as a guardian of the night’s guiding light. An owl perches on his shoulder, offering wisdom, while a playful squirrel rests at his feet, adding a whimsical touch to this enchanting scene.
From the intricate design of his star-topped staff to the fine details of the animals by his side, the craftsmanship of this piece is truly exceptional. Star Keeper Santa is a rare treasure that will elevate any collection.
The End of the Line:
The End of the Line Santa, created by Robert Simpich, stands as a symbolic farewell to collectors around the world. Designed during the final days of the Doll Shop, this piece carries a poignancy unlike any other—a quiet acknowledgement that an era of handcrafted storytelling was drawing to a close.
Remembered as the very last Simpich Character Doll ever created, End of the Line Santa represents both a culmination and a benediction: a graceful nod to decades of artistry, imagination, and the thousands of families who welcomed Simpich creations into their homes. It remains one of the most meaningful pieces in the entire collection, a final chapter lovingly shaped by the artist who began the journey so many years before.
Condition: Heirloom Quality
#31/750
End of the Line Santa is not only the final Santa in the Simpich collection, but also the last Simpich design, released at the end of 2006. Limited to just 750, this piece is the most sought-after Simpich doll. Santa is dressed in a work apron with tools and holds a toy train, while a dog sits at his feet, adding warmth and character to the scene. The craftsmanship and unique details of this piece make it a highly treasured collector's item, marking the end of an iconic era in Simpich artistry.
Get in touch with Toby Simpich
Whether you trying to choose which piece would be best to start with or you’re trying to find that final piece to complete your collection reach out using this form! This Collection can be one of the hardest to complete, and I would love to make that process easier for you!