Steiff Koala Bear Value Guide

The Steiff Koala Bear is a prized mid-century collectible produced only between 1955 and 1961 in Germany. This piece stands out from traditional teddy bears due to its unique mohair texture and distinctive hand-stitched features, making it a rare find for serious Steiff enthusiasts.

What affects the value of Steiff Koala Bear?

• Overall condition of the mohair, as thinning or balding significantly impacts the $240-$260 price range.
• The presence of original identification marks, such as the chest tag or the silver-script button.
• The integrity of the wool felt components, which are prone to moth damage or fading over time.
• The functionality of the joints and the preservation of the original hand-stitched embroidery.

How to Identify Steiff Koala Bear?

• Look for the signature wool felt nose and paw pads characteristic of the 1955-1961 production era.
• Verify the presence of authentic glass eyes and firm excelsior stuffing inside the mohair body.
• Check for the jointed limb construction and the specific hand-stitched facial detailing unique to this German-made model.
• Search for remnants of the Steiff 'Button in Ear' or yellow tag which confirms its mid-century origin.

History of Steiff Koala Bear

First introduced in the mid-1950s, Steiff's koala was a departure from their traditional teddy bears. Produced between 1955 and 1961, these bears are highly sought after by collectors due to their short production window and distinctive felt nose and hand-stitched features.