Steiff Original Teddy Bear Value Guide

This 1983 Steiff Original Teddy Bear represents the enduring legacy of Margarete Steiff's German craftsmanship, featuring the classic jointed design pioneered by Richard Steiff. Hand-stuffed with excelsior and crafted from premium brown mohair, it remains a cornerstone for collectors of late 20th-century plush toys.

What affects the value of Steiff Original Teddy Bear?

• Condition of the mohair fur, specifically looking for thinning or 'balding' spots.
• The presence and legibility of the original yellow cloth tag and chest paper label.
• Functionality of the internal joints and the firmness of the traditional excelsior stuffing.
• Overall cleanliness and absence of odors or repairs to the felt paw pads.

How to Identify Steiff Original Teddy Bear?

• Verify the presence of the brass-plated 'Button in Ear' (Knopf im Ohr) trademark in the left ear.
• Check for the yellow ear tag which signifies a standard production item from the 1983 era.
• Confirm the five-way jointed construction allowing the head, arms, and legs to move independently.
• Inspect the paw pads for authentic felt material and the presence of hand-stitched nose and claw details.

History of Steiff Original Teddy Bear

Steiff teddy bears are renowned worldwide for their quality and craftsmanship. The company was founded by Margarete Steiff in Germany in 1880, initially producing felt animals. The first 'bear on wheels' was created in 1892, but it was Margarete's nephew Richard Steiff who designed the first jointed teddy bear, the 'Bear 55 PB', in 1902. This design revolutionized the toy industry, and the teddy bear quickly became a global phenomenon. Steiff bears are distinguished by their 'Button in Ear' trademark, a symbol of authenticity and quality.