Steiff Slo Tortoise Value Guide

The Steiff Slo Tortoise is a mid-century marvel of German craftsmanship, featuring a distinctive airbrushed mohair shell and delicate felt limbs. Produced between the 1950s and 1970s, this character remains a favorite for collectors due to its expressive face and the high-quality materials synonymous with Margarete Steiff's legacy.

What Is Steiff Slo Tortoise Worth?

The typical price range for Steiff Slo Tortoise is $100 - $150 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Presence of original identification including the ear button, yellow tag, and chest label significantly increases value.
• Condition of the mohair, specifically the lack of thinning or 'balding' on the tortoise shell.
• The vibrancy of the original airbrushed colors, as sunlight exposure can cause the greens and browns to fade over time.
• Overall cleanliness of the felt limbs, which are prone to staining or moth damage in poorly stored examples.

How to Identify Steiff Slo Tortoise?

• Look for the signature Steiff 'Button in Ear' or the remaining yellow cloth tag on the left front flipper.
• Examine the shell for authentic hand-painted airbrushed patterns on the mohair fabric.
• Verify the presence of the original paper chest tag featuring the name 'Slo' in a red and blue font.
• Check for authentic felt construction on the head, underside, and legs, which should feel firm and well-stuffed.

History of Steiff Slo Tortoise

Steiff, founded in Germany in 1880 by Margarete Steiff, is world-renowned for its high-quality stuffed animals. The company pioneered the jointed teddy bear and has since produced countless beloved characters. The Slo Tortoise, with its unique design and craftsmanship, is a testament to Steiff's enduring legacy of creating collectible and cherished toys.