Steiff Teddy Bear Value Guide

Founded by Margarete Steiff in 1880, this German manufacturer revolutionized the toy industry with the introduction of the jointed teddy bear in 1902. This specific 1910-1920 era example is highly collectible due to its dark mohair, which suggests it may be a rare 'Titanic Mourning Bear' produced to commemorate the 1912 maritime disaster.

What Is Steiff Teddy Bear Worth?

The typical price range for Steiff Teddy Bear is $350 - $450 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Rarity of the dark mohair color, specifically if it can be verified as a 1912 Titanic Mourning edition produced for the English market.
• Overall physical condition, including the preservation of the mohair pile and the integrity of the internal excelsior stuffing.
• Presence and condition of original components such as the glass eyes and the metal ear button.
• Historical provenance and age, with bears from the 1910-1920 era typically fetching between $350 and $450 depending on wear.

How to Identify Steiff Teddy Bear?

• Look for the signature 'Button in Ear' trademark which is the primary indicator of an authentic Steiff production.
• Examine the coat for genuine dark mohair and check for traditional excelsior (wood wool) stuffing used during the 1910-1920 period.
• Verify the presence of original glass eyes and a hand-stitched nose, which are characteristic of early 20th-century German craftsmanship.
• Check for five-way jointing at the neck, shoulders, and hips, allowing for the classic poseable movement of antique Steiff bears.

History of Steiff Teddy Bear

Steiff, founded in Germany in 1880 by Margarete Steiff, revolutionized the toy industry with their innovative soft toys, particularly the jointed teddy bear introduced in 1902. Known for their high quality and 'Button in Ear' trademark, Steiff bears became highly sought after, with specific designs gaining historical significance. The 'Titanic Mourning Bears,' produced in 1912, were created to commemorate the sinking of the Titanic, particularly in England, where black or dark-colored bears were made in limited numbers to appeal to those in mourning. This bear's dark mohair and visible age suggest it could be one such collectible.