Hi, Diane! Yes, they were the first ones released, in the 1980s. Then American Girl changed the torso to closer match the skin so that the dolls could wear lower necklines. I can't think of any other major differences, except they were made in West Germany (before the fall of the wall!) and their heads are tied on instead of put on with tie-wraps (like the much newer dolls).

Although they may sell for more (I'm not sure), I'm not going to enthusiastically recommend seeking them out. My Molly doll is the white-torso doll. I've had the doll since my childhood and took care of her very well. *But* one of her eyes just got "silver eye" despite all the care. I'm worried that this will happen to other older dolls as well, and if meant for children to play with, children may find this frightening.

<font color="#051E50" size="1">[ August 22, 2004 11:10 PM: Message edited by: Melissa ]</font>