Steiff Bear Value & Price Guide

Steiff bears represent the pinnacle of plush craftsmanship, recognized globally by their iconic 'Button in Ear' trademark. Founded by Margarete Steiff in Germany, these collectibles range from early 20th-century antiques to modern limited editions that continue to captivate enthusiasts.

Price Range: $233 - $255 based on recent sales

History of Steiff Bear

The legacy of the Steiff bear began in 1880 when Margarete Steiff created a felt elephant pincushion, but the brand's true revolution occurred in 1902 with the creation of 'Bear 55 PB.' This was the world's first toy bear with movable arms and legs, designed by Margarete's nephew, Richard Steiff. The bear gained international fame after a US toy buyer ordered 3,000 units, coinciding with the 'Teddy Bear' craze inspired by President Theodore Roosevelt. Throughout the 20th century, Steiff introduced iconic designs such as the silver-grey Molly dog and the shaggy-maned Zotty bear. Despite the challenges of two World Wars, the company maintained its commitment to high-quality materials like mohair and wood wool stuffing. Today, Steiff remains a leader in the luxury toy market, producing both faithful replicas of their 1909 originals and contemporary commemorative editions.

Value Factors for Steiff Bear

The typical price range for Steiff Bear is $233 - $255 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Rarity and Age: Pre-WWII bears and early 'Bear on Wheels' models from the 1910s command significantly higher prices than mass-produced modern replicas.
• Condition of Mohair: The preservation of the natural fiber coat, including the absence of fading and thinning, is a primary driver of value.
• Provenance and Documentation: Original packaging, certificates of authenticity for limited editions, and a documented ownership history can double a bear's worth.
• Tag Integrity: A pristine, unclipped ear tag (especially the rare white tags for limited runs) ensures the item is considered 'collector grade' rather than just a toy.

Tips for Buying Steiff Bear

• Examine the 'Button in Ear' (Knopf im Ohr) tag to determine the era, as the design and material of the button changed significantly over the decades.
• Check for the presence of the original yellow or white chest tags, which provide specific model numbers and production details essential for valuation.
• Inspect the mohair or alpaca fur for signs of 'balding' or moth damage, as the integrity of the fabric heavily influences the market price.
• Verify the functionality of the internal squeakers or growlers, as working sound mechanisms are highly prized in vintage models like the Zotty or 1909 Classic.

Items in This Collection

• Steiff Miniature Teddy Bear
• Steiff Mohair Teddy Bear
• Steiff Petsy Teddy Bear
• Steiff Panda Bear
• Steiff Polar Bear
• Steiff Koala Bear
• Steiff Bear on Wheels
• Steiff Molly Dog
• Steiff Millennium Bear
• Steiff Zotty Teddy Bear
• Steiff 1909 Classic Teddy Bear
• Steiff Sonny Rabbit