The Barbie doll turns 50

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Barbie doll premiered in 1959

Photos of the Barbie doll over the years.

The 50th anniversary of the Barbie doll was commemorated with a lineup of dolls by Mattel in New York during Toy Fair 2009 last month. First in line is the first Barbie in her original black and white swim suit.

Here you can see other Barbie dolls lined up behind the original doll.

The Golden anniversary Barbie was shown with a Generation of Dreams Barbie, on display by Mattel at Toy Fair 2009.

The "Barbie Shoe Tree Ornament" was issued for her 45th "anniversary." From the back of the box: "She is truly the 'Queen of Sole.' "

Millenium Princess Barbie greeted the third millennium with a (plastic) crystal keepsake.

Barbie's respect for other cultures is second to none.

Maybe "The Munsters" was Barbie's favorite TV show. By the way, that's not Herman Munster with Barbie, that's Ken. The rumors continue.

Three strands of pearls gives new meaning to tres chic.

Bobby soxer Barbie can't believe she's on stage with the King.

Are we ready for a woman in the Oval Office? Barbie was ready in 2000!

An Olympic athlete, in two sports!

This Barbie seems to have one extra long leg for kicking.

This one won gold on the ice at Nagano, Japan.

Again, showing how sensitive to other customs and cultures she is, Barbie dresses in a traditional Indonesian outfit and carries the plates for the "tari piring" dance.

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The 50th anniversary of the Barbie doll was commemorated with a lineup of dolls by Mattel in New York during Toy Fair 2009 last month. First in line is the first Barbie in her original black and white swim suit.

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