NEW YORK, March 7, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- When Diana Spencer wed Prince Charles in 1981 the ceremony caused a global frenzy.  The wedding not only spurred trends in fashion, but also shaped the dreams of women around the world that they, too, could become a Princess.  Almost 30 years later another English woman, Kate Middleton, will be transformed into a Princess and will ignite the admiration and warm wishes of millions of women of all ages worldwide. What better way to celebrate the wedding that will define the next half century than to commemorate it with a limited edition, stunningly beautiful Kate Middleton doll created by the world-renowned Franklin Mint?

The Kate Middleton Doll is a beautiful and authentic replica of the future Princess, featuring hand-painted, life-like portrait sculpture, jewelry and a reproduction of the blue silk jersey dress that was worn to formally announce the engagement.  The Franklin Mint Middleton doll features miniature replicas of the jewelry the soon-to-be princess donned, including the necklace, earrings, and engagement ring, all outfitted with simulated sapphires, diamonds, and other jewels.

The 16 inch "Portrait of a Princess" doll has a soft vinyl body and chestnut brown handmade wig.  This limited edition collectible comes with a Certificate of Authenticity and a display stand. Only 5,000 dolls will be made worldwide.  The doll will retail for $195.00 USD.  In 1997 the Franklin Mint created a beautiful commemorative Princess Diana doll; today they will continue the tradition by introducing a doll to celebrate the newest princess.

"The Royal Wedding has generated a level international excitement that we haven't really felt since Diana's nuptials.  With our limited edition Kate Middleton doll, we are letting people take home a piece of the fairy tale," said Gwynne Gorr, Chief Marketing Officer of The Franklin Mint. "The Franklin Mint has a long history of creating the finest, most accurate collectibles in the world, and the Kate Middleton doll will be a great heirloom to pass down from generation to generation."

A portion of the sales proceeds of the Kate Middleton Portrait of a Princess Doll will go to charity.

The Franklin Mint is currently taking preorders for the doll at www.franklinmint.com or via phone at 1-800-TheMint.  Orders can also be placed through mail-in requests to The Franklin Mint, 801 Springdale Drive, Franklin Center, PA 19341.  A limited quantity will be sold in select retail locations once direct orders are fulfilled.

Additionally, The Franklin Mint will release a Kate Middleton Bridal Doll featuring an exact replica of the dress that will be worn at the wedding.  The doll's wig will reflect the hair style that is worn on her wedding day, and will feature a miniature tiara that Kate Middleton will wear as well.  As the design of the gown will not be revealed until the actual wedding day, customers can expect delivery of the product in late June.  Pre-orders are now being taken on the Franklin Mint's website (www.franklinmint.com). 

About The Franklin Mint

An American icon, The Franklin Mint was founded in 1964 and is known worldwide for its innovative design, meticulous attention to detail and creation of the highest-quality gifts, heirlooms, and collectibles in the world. The Franklin Mint's peerless archives contain over 12,000 products, including Limited Edition fine art sculptures, heirloom dolls, fine commemorative coins, designer jewelry, precision die-cast models and historic reproductions.

SOURCE The Franklin Mint