Steiff Bears
The history of Steiff bears goes all the way back to 1880. At that time, a German woman named Margarete Steiff actually invented the first teddy bear. Obviously, this tradition caught on like wildfire because there are few (if any) toys that are so well-known throughout the world. There is just something so lovable about this stuffed animal in particular that it is bound to live on forever. Children everywhere love to cuddle up with one. But did you know there is also a great collectors’ market (made up of adults) for teddy bears in general and especially Steiff bears? It’s true.
Margarete Steiff’s original idea definitely caught on pretty quickly and soon she had enlisted the help of her brother, Fritz. A few years later they had to bring on Margarete’s nephew who was named Richard. Remember, this all took place in Germany in the late 19th and early 20th century. As a matter of fact Margarete was actually disabled and got around in a wheelchair. But she certainly had a great eye for cuddly, lovable teddy bears!
Steiff bears themselves are probably most well known for having a button in their ear. This was originally done to prevent scam bears from being passed off as the real thing, but it has remained an “earmark” of the dolls ever since. You will also find that they are made out of mohair, the hair of the funny-looking and shaggy Angora goat. Other materials used in the bodies include felt and alpaca, and the eyes are either made of glass or wood. And even today those buttons in the ear are still being used to protect people from counterfeiters. (Yes, the company is still around and producing Steiff bears of the highest quality.) On the button you should either find the picture of an elephant or the name “Steiff”.
Nowadays, as has been alluded to, there is still a great rambunctious market for Steiff bears. Many of the popular modern ones include Christmas bears (done each year), Cosy Friends for babies, a limited edition for North America, and of course the classics. Surprisingly to some, you can get many of these for under $30. That is quite a good deal on a teddy bear with so much great history. Steifff USA has even branched out into making a few other animals. They make camels, dogs, monkeys, cats, etc. You really can’t go wrong with any selection of Steiff bears in my opinion.
 |
 Steiff White Circus Clown Bear  US $25.49
|
 Ugly Old Vintage Steiff Girl Bear in Outfit NO BUTTON US $15.05
|
 Funny Eyed Antique Steiff Teddy Bear Gordy US $103.50
|
 Steiff Club Bear FIRST GRADER Apple Green 1998 US $58.00
|
 STEIFF BEAR ANTIQUE HUNTER DOG IN MOHAIR STRAW US $15.00
|
To stay within FTC guidelines and provide full disclosure, it should be noted that if I create a link to a product or service, I may get paid a commission if you purchase the product or service.
