Steiff Mohair Teddy Bear Value Guide

Antique Steiff Mohair Teddy Bear Mini 3" Tall Button Ear Wire Bendable Brown Fur | eBay
Steiff Mohair Teddy Bear
Estimated Value
$75 – $150
Period
1920-1960
Origin
Germany
Materials
mohair, cotton stuffing, glass eyes, thread
Category
Steiff bear

This vintage Steiff Mohair Teddy Bear represents the gold standard of German toy craftsmanship from the mid-20th century. Renowned for defining the classic jointed bear aesthetic, these miniatures are highly collectible due to their durable mohair fur and expressive hand-stitched features.

What Is Steiff Mohair Teddy Bear Worth?

The typical price range for Steiff Mohair Teddy Bear is $75 - $150 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

  • Presence of original Steiff identification, such as the ear button, yellow tag, or chest label, significantly increases market price.
  • Overall condition of the mohair plush, with higher values assigned to bears that retain most of their original fur coverage.
  • The functionality of the internal joints and the integrity of the original cotton stuffing.
  • Rarity of the specific size and color variant produced between the 1920s and 1960s.

How to Identify Steiff Mohair Teddy Bear?

  • Look for the signature 'Button in Ear' trademark or evidence of a small hole where the metal tag was originally attached.
  • Examine the fur for genuine mohair texture, which typically shows a distinctive pattern of wear and thinning on pieces from the 1920-1960 era.
  • Verify the presence of black glass eyes and a hand-stitched nose and mouth consistent with Steiff's traditional manufacturing techniques.
  • Check for five-way jointing in the neck, arms, and legs, allowing for full poseability characteristic of authentic Steiff designs.

History of Steiff Mohair Teddy Bear

Steiff began making mohair teddy bears in the early 1900s and helped define the classic collectible bear with jointed limbs, glass eyes and high-quality mohair fur. Small mohair bears were produced throughout the 20th century as both children’s toys and collectible miniatures. Collectors value original pieces with Steiff identification and natural wear can add to the vintage charm and provenance.

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