Gabrielle Designs Paddington Bear Value Guide

The Gabrielle Designs Paddington Bear is a landmark in toy history, originally created in 1972 by Shirley Clarkson as a Christmas gift for her children. These vintage plush bears are highly collectible as they were the first to introduce Paddington's iconic wellington boots, a design choice that eventually influenced the character's official book illustrations.

What affects the value of Gabrielle Designs Paddington Bear?

• Condition of the felt duffle coat and hat, specifically looking for moth damage or fading from sunlight.
• Presence and condition of the original yellow Dunlop boots, as replacements or missing boots significantly lower the value.
• The survival of the original paper 'Please look after this bear' tag, which is often lost or torn.
• Overall cleanliness of the plush fur and whether the bear retains its original structural integrity to stand unaided.

How to Identify Gabrielle Designs Paddington Bear?

• Check for the presence of original yellow Dunlop brand wellington boots, which were used to help the bear stand upright.
• Verify the 'Gabrielle Designs' woven label usually located on the back of the bear or inside the clothing.
• Examine the duffle coat for authentic wooden toggles and high-quality felt material consistent with 1970s UK production.
• Look for the 'Please look after this bear' luggage tag made of thick cardstock with a safety pin attachment.

History of Gabrielle Designs Paddington Bear

The first Paddington Bear soft toys were created in 1972 by Shirley Clarkson of Gabrielle Designs as Christmas gifts for her children. They were the first to put Paddington in wellington boots to help him stand upright, a detail that was later incorporated into the book illustrations.