Steiff Animal Value & Price Guide

Steiff animals are among the most coveted plush collectibles in the world, recognized globally for their exceptional craftsmanship and the iconic 'Button in Ear' trademark. These meticulously handcrafted creatures range from realistic wildlife to charming farm animals, representing over a century of German toy-making excellence.

Price Range: $113 - $145 based on recent sales

History of Steiff Animal

Founded by Margarete Steiff in 1880, the company began with a felt elephant pincushion before revolutionizing the toy industry with the creation of the first jointed teddy bear in 1902. Throughout the mid-20th century, Steiff expanded its menagerie to include a vast array of species like the Foxy Fox Terrier and Wittie Owl, utilizing high-quality materials and lifelike designs that appealed to both children and adult collectors. The brand survived various economic shifts and wartime material shortages, maintaining a reputation for durability and artistry that persists in the secondary market today.

Value Factors for Steiff Animal

The typical price range for Steiff Animal is $113 - $145 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The presence and condition of the 'Button in Ear' (Knopf im Ohr) and original paper chest tags.
• The rarity of the specific animal model and its production timeframe, with pre-1960s pieces often fetching higher prices.
• The physical condition of the mohair, including the lack of thinning, stains, or odors from previous storage environments.

Tips for Buying Steiff Animal

• Always check for the presence of the original brass or nickel-plated button and the attached yellow or white ear tag to verify authenticity.
• Examine the material quality, as vintage Steiff animals are typically crafted from mohair or alpaca rather than synthetic fibers.
• Look for original accessories such as chest tags, ribbons, or bells, which significantly increase the desirability and completeness of the piece.

Items in This Collection

• Steiff Fawn
• Steiff Leopard
• Steiff Wittie Owl
• Steiff Biggie Beagle
• Steiff Lamby
• Steiff St. Bernard Dog
• Steiff Squirrel
• Steiff Llama
• Steiff Tabby Cat
• Steiff Foxy Fox Terrier
• Steiff Peggy Penguin
• Steiff Lamby Lamb
• Steiff Slo Tortoise
• Steiff Zicky Goat