Teddy bears are stuffed toy bears that are typically made of soft materials like plush fabric and filled with stuffing such as cotton or synthetic fibers. They are named after Theodore “Teddy” Roosevelt, the 26th President of the United States, and are often associated with him due to a famous anecdote.
The story goes that in 1902, President Roosevelt was on a hunting trip in Mississippi and was unable to find a bear to shoot. His hunting party eventually cornered and captured a young black bear, which they tied to a tree to give the President an opportunity to shoot it. However, when Roosevelt saw the defenseless bear, he refused to shoot it, deeming the act unsportsmanlike.
This incident was depicted in a political cartoon by Clifford Berryman, and it caught the public’s attention. A Brooklyn candy shop owner named Morris Michtom saw the cartoon and, inspired by the story, created a stuffed bear toy and called it “Teddy’s bear.” He displayed it in his store window, and it quickly became popular.
Soon after, another toy maker named Richard Steiff in Germany also started producing stuffed bears. These early teddy bears had jointed limbs and were made with mohair fabric. The teddy bear’s popularity continued to grow, and they became beloved toys worldwide.
Teddy bears come in various sizes, styles, and colors, and they have become iconic symbols of comfort, companionship, and childhood. They are often given as gifts to children and loved ones, and many people collect them as a hobby. Teddy bears are also frequently featured in literature, movies, and various forms of popular culture.
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Teddy bears can be highly collectible items
Teddy bears have been a popular toy since the early 20th century, and there are many collectors who are interested in acquiring and preserving vintage and rare teddy bears. The value of a teddy bear as a collectible can vary widely based on factors such as its age, manufacturer, condition, rarity, and any unique features it may have.
Some of the most sought-after teddy bears for collectors include those made by famous manufacturers like Steiff, which is known for producing some of the earliest teddy bears, as well as bears made by other well-known companies such as Merrythought, and Ideal. Limited edition or special commemorative bears can also be highly collectible.
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Steiff teddy bears
Steiff teddy bears are a type of stuffed animal or plush toy, specifically teddy bears, that are manufactured by the German company Steiff GmbH. Steiff is one of the world’s most renowned and oldest producers of stuffed animals and is particularly famous for its high-quality teddy bears.
A replica of a Steiff model 55PB, the first Steiff Bear; Steiff-Museum Giengen, Germany, 2006.
No original examples are known to survive. CC BY-SA 3.0
Here are some key features and facts about Steiff teddy bears:
Historical Significance: Steiff is credited with creating the world’s first teddy bear in 1902. The story goes that the company’s founder, Margarete Steiff, designed a plush bear with jointed limbs and a huggable, bear-like appearance. This bear was named “Teddy” after President Theodore “Teddy” Roosevelt, who had refused to shoot a bear on a hunting trip, thus inspiring the creation of the teddy bear.
Quality Craftsmanship: Steiff teddy bears are known for their exceptional quality and attention to detail. They are typically made from high-quality materials, including mohair or alpaca fur, and feature jointed limbs for poseability.
Button in Ear: Most Steiff teddy bears have a small metal button in their ear, which serves as a hallmark of authenticity. This button typically features the Steiff logo and is used to distinguish genuine Steiff products from imitations.
Collectibility: Steiff teddy bears have a strong collector’s market. Vintage and limited-edition Steiff bears can be highly sought after by collectors, and they often command high prices at auctions and in the secondary market.
Variety: Over the years, Steiff has produced a wide range of teddy bear designs, including different sizes, colors, and styles. They have also created special edition bears to commemorate various events and occasions.
Global Presence: Steiff is a globally recognized brand, and its teddy bears are sold worldwide. The company continues to produce new teddy bear designs, as well as other stuffed animals and collectibles.
Steiff Museum: Steiff operates a museum in Giengen, Germany, where visitors can learn about the history of the company and see a vast collection of Steiff teddy bears and other stuffed animals.
Steiff teddy bears have a rich history and are cherished by collectors and teddy bear enthusiasts for their timeless appeal and craftsmanship. They continue to be a symbol of comfort, nostalgia, and childhood for many people around the world.
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Titanic Steiff Teddy Bears: A Tribute to Titanic Victims In the somber aftermath of the tragic Titanic sinking in 1912, which plunged Britain into mourning, a British toy vendor commissioned a special edition of black Steiff teddy bears. These bears were intended to provide solace and companionship to the grieving public. However, their commercial success was limited, leading to the discontinuation of production. Only 494 of these unique bears were crafted across five different sizes. Today, these bears are prized possessions among collectors, cherished for their profound historical significance and rarity.
Luxury Teddy Bears: In 2008, Steiff introduced a limited-edition Karl Lagerfeld teddy bear priced at €1,000. Fast forward to 2018, Steiff and Tiffany & Co. joined forces to present an opulent teddy bear. This 10.5-inch, rich caramel-colored mohair teddy bear was available for purchase at $375.
Notable auctions: Vintage Steiff teddy bears are prized by collectors, and depending on the type can bring significant sums at auction.
In a 1994 auction, the Steiff “Teddy Girl” made in 1904 sold for a record $165,000.
In 2000, a Steiff Louis Vuitton Teddy Bear, with eyes made of sapphire and diamonds, and with gold parts, sold at an auction in Monaco for $2.1 million.
In May 2001, at a London Christie’s auction of vintage teddy bears, a pair of Steiff teddy bears made in 1908 went for sale with an estimated value of about $20,000.
In December 2002, “Edwin”, a 5 1/2-inch Steiff teddy bear that accompanied a British soldier, Percy Kynnersley-Baddlely, killed in the Battle of the Somme in 1916, was sold for £4,230.
In 2010, a 1925 Steiff Harlequin teddy bear sold at a London Christie’s auction for £46,850.
Merrythought teddy bears
Merrythought teddy bears are a type of collectible teddy bear produced by Merrythought Limited, a British teddy bear manufacturer. Merrythought is one of the oldest teddy bear companies in the world, with a history dating back to 1930. The company is known for its high-quality handmade teddy bears, which are often considered luxury items and are highly sought after by collectors.
Merrythought teddy bears are typically made from premium materials such as mohair or high-quality plush fabric. They are stuffed with soft, plush filling and are traditionally jointed with movable limbs, allowing them to be posed in various positions. Many Merrythought bears feature a distinctive label sewn into their ear, which is a hallmark of the brand.
Merrythought teddy bears come in a wide range of styles and designs, including classic teddy bear designs, as well as limited-edition and commemorative bears. Some Merrythought bears are designed to resemble famous teddy bears from the past, paying homage to the rich history of teddy bear making.
Due to their craftsmanship and heritage, Merrythought teddy bears are highly collectible, and they often appreciate in value over time. Collectors often seek out specific editions or bears with unique features to add to their collections. These bears are cherished not only for their charming appearance but also for the nostalgia and history they represent in the world of teddy bears.
Typically produced in limited quantities, “Special Edition bears” have been a tradition for commemorating significant royal events. In July 2013, as a tribute to the birth of Prince George, the UK Royal family, the company unveiled a unique limited edition bear. Notable royal figures such as The Queen, who received a Merrythought corgi in 1952, and Prince Charles, who was gifted a specially crafted hippo in 1982, have also had their own custom-made bears. Additionally, the Queen Mother, Prince William, and Zara Phillips are among those who possess specially designed bears.
Among the collection of past special edition bears is “Heathcliff,” a Merrythought bear from 2004. Only 100 of these bears were produced, and they featured black mohair instead of the traditional gold, making them particularly unique.
London 2012 Olympic Games Commemorative Teddy Bears were made, each a Limited Edition of 2,012 pieces. Paralympic and Team GB Teddy Bears were also produced.
Ideal teddy bears
Ideal Toy Corporation was founded in 1907, and over the years, they manufactured a wide range of toys, including teddy bears. These teddy bears came in various sizes, styles, and materials, catering to different tastes and preferences. Ideal’s teddy bears were popular among children and collectors alike. The company produced many other iconic toys as well, making them a significant player in the toy industry for many decades.
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Teddy bear collector’s notes
Collectors often look for teddy bears with specific characteristics, such as unique colors, materials, and designs. Vintage teddy bears from the early 20th century, especially those with original tags and in excellent condition, can command high prices in the collectibles market.
If you are interested in collecting teddy bears, it’s essential to do your research, attend teddy bear shows and conventions, and connect with other collectors to learn more about the hobby.
Additionally, you should be mindful of proper storage and preservation techniques to ensure the long-term value and condition of your collectible teddy bears.
Storing teddy bears properly
Storing teddy bears properly is important to keep them in good condition and prevent damage. Here are some steps you can follow to store your teddy bears effectively:
Clean Them: Before storing your teddy bears, make sure they are clean. If they are machine washable, follow the care instructions on the label. If not, spot clean any stains or dirt with a mild detergent and a damp cloth. Allow them to air dry completely.
Dust Removal: Dust can accumulate on stuffed animals, so it’s a good idea to gently shake or pat them outside to remove any loose dust or debris.
Use Clean Containers: Choose a clean and dry container or storage option. Some suitable options include:
- Plastic Bins: Plastic bins with tight-fitting lids are a good choice as they protect teddy bears from dust, moisture, and pests. Make sure the bin is clean and dry before use.
- Vacuum-Sealed Bags: You can use vacuum-sealed bags to compress teddy bears and reduce the amount of air inside. This helps save space and protect the bears from dust and pests.
- Garment Bags: Teddy bears can be placed inside garment bags, which are breathable and protect them from dust while allowing some air circulation.
Avoid Sunlight: Direct sunlight can fade the colors of teddy bears and may damage their materials. Store them in a cool, dark place away from sunlight.
Keep Them Dry: Ensure that the storage area is dry to prevent mold and mildew growth. Moisture can damage the stuffing and fabric of teddy bears.
Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Extreme temperatures, whether hot or cold, can also harm teddy bears. Avoid storing them in areas prone to temperature fluctuations, such as attics or basements.
Provide Padding: If you’re stacking teddy bears in a bin or using vacuum-sealed bags, place a layer of soft padding between them to prevent any friction or compression damage. You can use clean, soft towels or blankets for this purpose.
Label the Storage: If you have multiple teddy bears, label the storage containers with a list of the bears inside or take photos so you can easily identify them later without having to open every container.
Check Periodically: It’s a good idea to check on your stored teddy bears from time to time to ensure they remain in good condition. Look for signs of pests, moisture, or any other potential issues.
By following these steps, you can store your teddy bears safely and protect them from damage, ensuring they stay in good condition for years to come.
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Teddy Bear Collectors’ Guides & Books
Teddy Bears Past and Present: A Collector’s Identification Guide, Hardcover, 1986 by Linda Mullins
How to Make Heirloom Teddy Bears, Paperback, 2017 by Sue Quinn
A Collector’s History of the Teddy Bear, Hardcover, 1986 by Patricia Schoonmaker
The Teddy Bear Encyclopedia, Paperback – August 1, 2001 by Pauline Cockrill, Peter Anderson
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