Barbie was first released for sale in the United States in 1959. Ken was introduced the following year, in 1960. The Barbie doll was first displayed at a New York International American Toy Fair on March 9, 1959. This is the official date of Barbie's birth, 1959.The first dolls had similar bodies -- without bendable arms or legs.The hair was thick and tight, not long nor silky as in later years.She had painted lips, eyes and lashes.his is the official date of Barbie's birth, 1959. The first dolls had similar bodies -- without bendable arms or legs. The hair was thick and tight, not long nor silky as in later years. She had painted lips, eyes and lashes.