18" Antique German Bisque J.D. Kestner Doll

18" J.D. Kestner circa 1911. Head marked: Made in Germany 6-1/2 168  7-1/2. Sleeping brown eyes, real eyelashes, four teeth, eyebrows molded. Blond mohair wig on "plaster" head cap. Body shows almost no wear. Perfect bisque head. Red stamp on hip appears to read: Germany 556 (not certain of number, indistinct).
The June, 1911 Lettie Lane paper doll is shown in "Ladies Home Journal" magazine with vacation clothes and a dress made with waist gathers and ribbon bow very much like this doll is wearing. The Journal never expected to get 26,000 girls sending in 3 new subscriptions and $4.50 for a Lettie Lane Doll. When Kestner couldn't supply them fast enough, other companies stepped in to help. It is known that there were several solutions to the demand as other companies helped fill orders as fast as possible. Some collectors assume that Kestner had to provide other 18" dolls besides #171. Kestner stopped future listing of his 18" #171 after this big order was completed.
There is a small chip on the big toe of the right foot. Her hair was combed and is thinner than original. Whether Kestner provided other than #171 for Lettie Lane is unknown. This #168 is similar.