Well not only with AG being a subs. I think that Barbie has had a longer running history and by this point power has changed hands and to keep a product as long lived as Barbie afloat they will appeal to who ever has cash in hand.

When did they first "collector barbie" (that was actually marked as a collectable by the company) released? Anyone know?

I haven't a clue really what bee AG has in their bonnet over adult collectors... I thought the reason AG was even created was so that OLDER girls could be a target market and teach them to love and play with their dolls? What was I expected to do once I turned 18? Just dump all my stuff in the trash and click the little button under my arm that will termanate attachments, feelings, and emotions?

I do agree about Barbie Collectors... most serious collectors wouldn't blink an eye at mauling you for a barbie (figurativly speaking).

One of my best friends collects Barbies and she doesn't fall into that catagory... but then again she's a collector not really a SERIOUS collector. She buys what she likes... and if she misses an oppertunity she doesn't have a cow.

We all knew that Barbie had been thrown to the adults with the release of Lingure Barbie (actually released BY Mattel)