Summer Festival Steiff Bears Are On Their Way!

It is that time of the year again for the Steiff Summer Festival which is held in Giengen, Germany on an annual basis.

Limited to only 500 pieces, this very special set was created exclusively for the 2017 Festival.

These two very colorful teddy bears pay homage to the very first vibrant Steiff bears ever made.  The original set was produced for Harrods in 1908 and are primary red and yellow bears.  Made from mohair, each has a sculpted muzzle and a replica of the original Steiff elephant 'Button in Ear' tag.

One bear measure 7 inches and the other 8 inches tall.

Truly a very special Steiff set for that discerning bear collector!

Quote of the Day - "The tragedy in life doesn't lie in not reaching your goal.  The tragedy lies in having no goal to reach." - Benjamin Mays

How to Identify your Teddy Bear

Steiff "Button in Ear" Tags

Not sure whether or not you might have a Steiff Bear?  (Steiff Bears, in my opinion, are currently one of the few collectibles that either holds or increases in value).  Auction sites sell older Steiff teddy bears for values in great excess from their original prices.

To identify whether or not you might have a Steiff, take a look at the following 3 things:

1.  Chest Tag
2.  Button In Ear
3.  Ear Tag

A bit about each of the previously mentioned items:

1.  Chest Tags - Steiff chest tags are made of paper and are always circular in shape.  Unfortunately, this is the first item on a Steiff item that is lost or misplaced.  The chest tags on both these teddy bears and animals have changed often over the years.

2.  Button in Ear - this is considered the most famous of the Steiff animal identifiers, and they have also changed dramatically over the years.  (Your teddy bear or animal might have a visible hole in his right ear which could signify that he is in fact, a Steiff).  Steiff occasionally uses an old-fashioned button in ear on one of their replica pieces.

Taken from an excellent article on hubpages.com here is their listing of various button types over the years.

Years in Use	Description	Button Size
1904/1905	Silver toned button with elephant	6mm
1904/1905	Blank button	6mm
1908 - 1927	Nickel and Iron button with word Steiff on it	4mm
1925 - 1934/35	Iron and nickel plated button with word Steiff	8mm
1933/34 - 1943	Brass button with word Steiff	6mm
1948 - 1950	Grey-blue Lacquered Blank Button	7mm
1948 - 1950	Blank Nickel Button	5mm
1950 - 1952	Button with word Steiff	6mm
1952/53	Nickel Button with Steiff in Script	5mm
1960 - 1972	Nickel Button with Steiff in Script	5mm
1967 - 1977	Nickel Button in Form of Hollow Rivet with word Steiff in Script
1969 - 1977	Nickel Button with Small Steiff Lettering, inset instead of raised	5mm
1977 - 1982	Brass Button with Steiff in Script, Recessed Letters	8mm
1982 - 1999	Brass Button with Steiff in Script, Slightly Rounded	8mm
2000 - Present	Same as above but with more modern rivet fixture on the back	9mm
2004	Replica Pieces have a special gold-plated button with original elephant design

3.  Ear Tag - This is the actual tag attached to the button in ear which distinguishes each and every Steiff teddy bear or animal.  An EAN (European Article Number) is contained on each tag.  This numbering system has been used exclusively by Steiff since 1905.  Incidentally, limited edition tags (North American Exclusives, Worldwide Limited Editions, and Replicas) include the edition number the the total size of the limited edition itself.

Quote of the Day - "Whatever the mind of man can conceive and believe, it can achieve." - Napoleon Hill

2014 Steiff Bears Fall Line

Franz Teddy Bear by Steiff EAN 034060

The official launch date to introduce the up and coming 2014 Steiff Fall line was July 1st.  We have to say that this collection is amazing!  There are so many incredible teddy bears and animals that it makes it so hard to choose a favorite.

And all of the North American Exclusives, Replicas, and Worldwide Limited Editions come with a very special 'Button in Ear' tag.  In 1904 the founder, Margarete Steiff, officially registered the "Button in Ear".  This memorable event is now commemorated with an ear tag that contains the very same elephant motif that was used more than 110 years ago.

 A bit about this fantastic collection directly from Steiff:

"There's a new parade of novelties headed your way for fall and holiday 2014. Leading the procession is Lukas, the drummer boy, with his little tin drum. In his smart white mohair coat, he sets the pace for a cast of characters that's sure to bring joy to collectors everwhere. There are rare treasures, unique replicas, and lovable animals in store for everyone.

 Fall marks the return of the coveted Margarete Steiff edition. This black-tag series represents the very best of Steiff design and craftsmanship. Each piece is meticulously handmade by our most skilled artisans and produced in strictly low quantities. This special edition pays tribute to Franz Steiff who developed the famous "Button in Ear" trademark exactly 110 years ago. The bear comes with a copy of the original button patent and a sealing wax kit.

 The collection also includes characters designed to help collectors celebrate the upcoming holiday season. There's a musical bear that plays "Last Christmas," a little girl Teddy in a snowflake gown, and a pair of festive ornaments.

 Plus, there are plenty of ideas for gift-giving. Wouldn't Teddy with Matryoshka make a wonderful Christmas surprise? And who wouldn't appreciate the gift of adventure with our Marco and Niccolo Teddy bears?

 Naturally, you'll also find new exclusives for the North American audience. The ever-popular series of bears with SWAROVSKI ELEMENTS continues with "Rudy," a fresh, new pink bear. The next "Wizard of Oz" edition is the Scarecrow, officially licensed by Warner Brothers.  

 Replicas also have their place in the festivities. There's a 1908 Teddy that looks amazingly like a vintage bear. And leading the tail end of the parade? A donkey replica on wheels from 1929, complete with squeaker."

Please stay tuned as we expect that these gems will start shipping in late Fall.

Quote of the Day -  "You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream." - CS Lewis
 

How Do I Find Out What My Collectible Teddy Bear or Doll is Worth?

This question is asked of us on at least a weekly basis.  So, where would one begin to find the value of a collectible doll or teddy bear?

There are lots of books written out there that will tell you the approximate value of an item, but keep in mind that these are not updated on a regular basis.  And also please keep in mind that these are estimates and the collectible market is constantly changing in regards to what is popular at the time.  One truly cannot value their collection at X amount of dollars as that is an estimate and sometimes the value will change dramatically when you actually go to sell your collection.

Some books that we recommend checking are:

Boyd's Bears - 

Boyd's Tracker, 2nd edition, 2004
The Boyds Collection Collector's Value Guide 2001

(Unfortunately, no recent Boyd's value books have been published.)

Madame Alexander Dolls - 

There are several Madame Alexander Doll price guides available for purchase.  The latest guide we found was published in 2009.

Steiff Bears - 

Many Steiff price guides can also be found but the latest guide we found in publication was from 2003.

Department 56 Villages and Snowbabies by Department 56 - 

Several guides were available for both Department 56 Villages as well as Snowbabies by Dept 56. We were very pleased to find that a recent guide from 2010 was available.

Charlie Bears - 

Since Charlie Bears is a relatively new company (founded in 2005) there is no value guide available at this time but the founders of Charlie Bears, Charlotte and William Morris, have written a book.  Titled "Love, Dreams and Bears", this book chronicles the first 5 years of the company and contains all teddy bears created in the first five years.

In addition, once in a while, you can find some beneficial information written by sellers on eBay who are avid collectors themselves.


Another excellent way to determine what your collectible is worth is to write in to either "Teddy Bear and Friends" magazine or "DOLLS" magazine.

In the past, Ken Yenke, teddy bear historian, museum curater, and appraiser asked collectors to send him photos and descriptions to him in care of Teddy Bear and Friends magazine.  Unfortunately, we were saddened to find that Ken recently passed away so we would assume that teddy bear appraisals will be unavailable for quite some time.  That is, until a replacement is found to try and fill his shoes.

For DOLLS magazine, collectors can send in their questions regarding doll identification and a current appraisal to:  Curious Collector, c/o DOLLS, PO Box 5000, Iola, WI 54945.  Photos should be included for each vintage and modern doll query.

Hope that you find this information helpful, and good luck with finding the information you desire!

Quote of the Day - "Imagination is more important than knowledge". - Albert Einstein

Just In time for Halloween Decorating - Scary Cat by Steiff, EAN 682513

We were very impressed that Steiff overnighted the Scary Cat EAN 682513 Halloween cats so there would be plenty of time for customers to receive them by Halloween.

This black mohair cat stands 13 inches to the tips of his ears and measures 17 inches to the top of his tail and is collectible in every way.  His green cat eyes make him a tad spooly, and his orange ribbon highlights his black Schulte mohair perfectly.

This collectible cat was brought back into Steiff production exactly 111 years from the original.

Why not add him to your Halloween Collection?

Quote of the Day - "The destiny of man is in his own soul." - Herodotus

Steiff's Wicked Witch of the West Teddy Bear (EAN 682407) Has Finally Arrived

After a very long wait, we are pleased to announce that Steiff's version of the Wizard of Oz' Wicked Witch of the West Teddy Bear has finally arrived.  This mohair bear is made from the finest green Schulte mohair and wears the classic black witche's outfit.

The "Wizard of Oz" still remains one of the most beloved films of all time and this year marks the 75th anniversary of the movie.  (Wicked Witch of the West Bear Steiff EAN 682407) wears a commemorative 75th anniversary medallion around her neck.

This limited edition Steiff North American Exclusive comes from an edition size of 1939 pieces.

Sure to be a Steiff collector's favorite!

Quote of the Day - "People with many interest live, not only longest, but happiest". - George Matthew Allen

In Case You Missed It - Background on Steiff Bears

Steiff - Famous hand-made German teddybears with Steiff "Button in Ear"

(Written by Brenda Mize, Owner of Beacon's Glow Collectibles)

History

Margarete Steiff, the founder of Steiff Bears, started her company in 1880. She beat all odds at the time by building a successful business, as she was wheelchair-bound as a result of polio. During this timeframe it was also unusual to find an aspiring female entrepreneur. Women had few legal rights or social standing during this period. Despite her handicap, she ultimately molded one of the most successful (and enduring) high-quality collectible toy companies in the world. After more than 128 years in business, this company continues to thrive and its products are in as much demand by collectors as they have ever been. This family-owned company makes about 15 million stuffed animals every year, which includes more than a quarter of a million Steiff teddy bears.

Steiff's plush animals are all designed by hand in their factory in Giengen, Germany. Each piece is hand-produced in their same traditional manner which results in the highest quality teddy bears and plush animals. Margarete Steiff's motto, which is still carried on by the company today, was "Only the best is good enough for our children".

Steiff "Button in Ear" Trademark

The Steiff "Button in Ear" trademark truly distinguishes each and every teddy bear and plush animal as a symbol of ultimate quality for toys. The "Button In Ear" trademark was invented in 1904 by Franz Steiff, one of Margarete's nephews, to distinguish Steiff bears from all others. Since 1904, each and every piece that Steiff has produced has the Steiff trademark button attached to its left ear.

To differentiate between Steiff's various collections, each teddybear and animal produced wears a distinctively colored tag as well as metal embossed button. For example:
Original Collection: comprised of a yellow Steiff ear tag with red writing and brass embossed button. Easily recognizable as an authentic Steiff Teddy Bear or Steiff animal.

　

Limited Edition: comprised of a white ear tag with red writing and gold-plated embossed button. Recognized by Steiff collectors as a piece from a limited edition.
Replica: comprised of a white ear tag with black writing and silver-plated embossed button. These replica animals are reproduced exactly according to Steiff's historic role models from the past.
Materials Used

Steiff Bears only uses the finest materials for their heirloom-quality teddy bears and animals. Two of the most popular materials used are mohair and alpaca. Both retain their long-lasting beauty which allows all of Steiff's pieces to be passed down from generation to generation.

Mohair has been used by Steiff since 1901 to make their teddy bears and animals. Angora goats took their name from the ancient Turkish city of Ankara, which was very close to where they originated. The Turks thought so highly of these special goats that none left the country until the sixteenth century. The first exports landed in Spain and France, but Angoras didn't reach American shores until 1849. The most valuable characteristic of the Angora goat is the value of the mohair that is clipped. The average goat in the U.S. shears approximately 5.3 pounds of mohair per shearing and are usually sheared twice a year – once in the spring and once again in the early fall.

Mohair fleece has always been the superior fabric for making teddy bears. There are many reasons for this:
1) mohair has an incredible luster to it, and dyed mohair resists fading caused by time and the elements
2) mohair is naturally almost non-flammable
3) mohair is considered the most durable animal fiber and is very resistant to hard wearing
4) the natural fibers from mohair have the ability to absorb and release atmospheric moisture
5) mohair is characteristically resistant to soiling
6) mohair possesses great tensile strength - diameter to diameter it is stronger than steel

Alpaca wool, on the other hand, is derived from the alpaca, a domesticated animal species from South America, that resembles a small llama. Alpaca fur is prized for its use in teddy bears, as well as many other items, and comes in more than 52 natural colors. It is light-weight, lustrous, and silky in nature which makes it a perfect medium for teddy bears.

Steiff at Auction

It is a well-known fact that Steiff Teddy Bears are true heirloom pieces, and increase in value as they gracefully age. They continue to fetch top prices among collectors and Steiff lovers. On October 14, 2000, the highest amount every paid for a teddy bear occurred at the Monaco "Teddies de l'An 2000" auction. Mr. Jessie Kim of Korea bought a "Louis Vuitton" teddy bear for 418,000 DM, which equates to nearly $195,000.00 USD.

The next highest amount paid for a Steiff bear at auction was $171,700 in 1994 for a bear named 'Teddy Girl'. This very valuable bear was a 1904 cinnamon Steiff bear sold to Yoshihiro Sekiguchi, founder of the Teddy Bear Museum in Izu, Japan.

Currently the latest teddy bear collector trend is for everyday collectors to buy reproductions of plush animals that are anywhere from 90 to 100 years old. Collectors desire the antique look, but don’t want the actual antiques themselves. Steiff teddy bears fit these requirements perfectly, and delight collectors of all ages by providing a lifetime of pleasure and enjoyment.

References
Margarete Steiff GmbH All About Your Collectible Teddy Bear’s Mohair, An Overview by Beacon’s Glow Collectibles
Pfeiffer Gunther (2001) 100 Years Steiff Teddy Bears. Koelbin-Fortuna-Druck GmbH: Baden/Germany.
Steiff Website (Germany)
Quote of the Day - "Along with success comes a reputation for wisdom." - Euripedes

Lots of New Steiff Bears 2012 Fall Collection Are In

We received in a sizable shipment from Steiff Bears late yesterday and today from their 2012 Fall Collection.  There are many wonderful pieces in this collection to include:  holiday ornaments; several teddy bears, a snow fox, and a deer from Steiff's Enchanted Forest Collection; Christmas teddies, and their long-awaited Molly Replica 1925 Dog EAN 403101. 

Anyway, it is very difficult to decide on a favorite but we are quite pleased that Steiff has introduced several Christmas teddy bears this year:
                    Christmas Teddy Bear by Steiff EAN 035333 

Romy Teddy Bear by Steiff EAN 035371 Holly Teddy Bear by Steiff EAN 035357 Angel Teddy Bear Ornament by Steiff EAN 035319 Fawn by Steiff EAN 036705 Christmas Rose Teddy Bear Ornament by Steiff EAN 035302

And as always, we offer very flexible layaway plans.  What a perfect way to get one of these incredible Steiff pieces before Christmas!

Quote of the Day - "Nobody can go back and start a new beginning, but anyone can start today and make a new ending." - Anonymous

Limited Production of Steiff Plush Teddy Bears

2012 marks something new from Steiff Bears - for the first time Steiff is introducing a line of their very popular Fynn and Lotte teddy bears that will only be produced during 2012.  Each plush teddybear will have a theme (sports, student, etc.)  And as an added touch, each teddy bear has the Steiff logo embroidered somewhere on either the bear or their accessories. 

Fynn is either a tan or brown plush Steiff teddy bear who is 11 inches tall.

Lotte is a white plush Steiff teddy who is 11 inches as well.

As of this date, we have received both the Student Fynn teddy and the Athlete Fynn teddy bear.

Please stay tuned as we expect to be receiving the Lotte bears in shortly.

Both of these bears are adorable but with their outfits and/or their accesories they are even cuter!

Quote of the Day - "The more difficulties one has to encounter, within and without, the more significant and the higher in inspiration his life will be." -
Horace Bushnell

FAO Schwarz's "A Gallery of Steiff Collectibles'

For those of you either living close to or planning to visit NYC before September 4th, we would highly recommend stopping by the FAO Schwarz Flagship Store located on 5th Avenue right in the heart of New York City.

This famous toy store is celebrating their 150th anniversary and to commemorate this event, they are exhibiting some famous vintage Steiff pieces dated anywhere from 1898 through 1932.  On display are Steiff ducks, cats, horses, rabbits, airplanes, and of course, plenty of teddy bears. 

We have been told that admission is free to the public and the display once again runs until September 4, 2012.  A perfect way to spend a hot summer's day, and enjoy Steiff's incredible past!

Quote of the Day - "Success is the sum of small efforts, repeated day in and day out." - Robert Collier

Steiff's Fall Introduction - Toto EAN 682261 from "The Wizard of Oz"

Steiff is introducing Dorothy's sidekick from 'The Wizard of Oz' this Fall.  Toto EAN 682261 will be a perfect match to go with Dorothy, EAN 681998.  He is 3-3/4 inches tall and made out of the finest Schulte mohair.  His wooden basket is also included with the classic checkered kerchief. Toto is an exclusive edition made especially for the UK, US, and Ireland.

Quote of the Day - "Trust the dreams for hidden in them is the gate to eternity." - Kahil Gibran

2012 Marks the 75th Anniversary of "Gone with the Wind" and "The Wizard of Oz"

Isn't it amazing that both movies, "Gone With the Wind" and "The Wizard of Oz" have had such lasting staying power over the years?  It is hard to believe that this year marks the 75th anniversary of both of these incredible movies.

To commemorate this event, there are several manufacturers who have either already introduced or will be introducing special dolls and bears to showcase both of these movies.  For example, Adora Dolls, Marie Osmond Dolls, Madame Alexander Dolls, and Steiff are some of those companies who have taken note of these anniversaries by producing special character dolls and bears from both of these movies.

Pictured above is Steiff's Dorothy The Wizard of Oz Bear EAN 681998 who came out last year.  We have gotten word from Steiff that this Fall they will be introducing a Toto dog complete in basket that looks just adorable.  This are already on order and we are looking forward to their arrival.

Quote of the Day - "Years teach us more than books." - Berthold Auerbach

Steiff Introduces Fozzie Bear EAN 681707

Steiff introduces, Fozzie Bear EAN 681707, in conjunction with Walt Disney-Muppet Studios.  According to People magazine, Fozzie is America's favorite bear.  Maybe this is because everyone loves Fozzie Bear's jokes and pranks?

Fozzie is 13 inches tall and is from a limited edition of only 1500 pieces.  He comes from Steiff's North American Exclusive Collection.  He is made from an orange-brown mohair and comes with his signature white and pink polka dot scarf and little brown hat.

Whether you are a Steiff collector, pop culture lover, or a Muppet fan, this is a must have bear.  His attention to detail is incredible.

Quote of the Day - "Ask yourself this question:  Will this matter a year from now?" - Richard Carlson

Many 2012 Steiff Bears Won this Year's TOBY Public Choice Award

We just read the latest Teddy Bear and Friends magazine who posted the 2012 TOBY (Teddy Bear of the Year) Public Choice Awards.

It is exciting to note that there are 5, yes, that is 5 Steiff winners.

They include:

Old Boy Teddy Bear Steiff Bears EAN 682117 (shown above)

A Christmas Carol Teddy Bear Steiff Bears EAN 682056

Snoopy Flying Ace EAN 682070

Birdie Springtime Rabbit Steiff Bears EAN 682100

Kitten in A Mitten Ornament EAN 682063

We currently have both Old Boy and A Christmas Carol Teddy in stock. But we are sold out of Birdie Springtime Rabbit, and Snoopy Flying Ace and Kitten in A Mitten have not arrived yet from Steiff.

A fantastic Steiff selection of limited edition pieces sure to please any Steiff Bear collector!

Quote of the Day - "No longer forward nor behindI look in hope and fear;But grateful take the good I find,The best of now and here." - John G. Whittier

Another Easter Steiff Rabbit - Birdie Springtime Rabbit Steiff Bears EAN 682100

Steiff has done it again in introducing another great pastel colored bunny rabbit just in time for Easter ordering.

According to Steiff:
"Steiff Birdie The Springtime Rabbit EAN 682100 is a rabbit with a tiny best friend; a miniature bird which sits perched on her paw. Steiff Birdie The Springtime Rabbit EAN 682100 is made of lavender mohair custom dyed especially for this edition. She also features white mohair accents. Her felt paw pads are air brushed by hand to simulate bunny footprints. Birdie’s best avian friend is delicately handcrafted of mohair and felt. This tiny little bird features intricate airbrushed details. Steiff Birdie The Springtime Rabbit EAN 682100 is the latest in our series of pastel bunnies. Whether you’ve collected the whole series or this will be your first, Steiff Birdie The Springtime Rabbit EAN 682100 is certain to add a special touch to your collection."

She is a beautiful pale lavender mohair and stands 9 inches tall.

Sure to be a Steiff North American Exclusive Favorite.

Incidentally, Birdie has won the prestigious TOBY (Teddy of the Year) Award this year.

Quote of the Day - "The best way to make your dreams come true is to wake up." -
Paul Valery

2012 Marks Steiff Club's 20th Anniversary

2012 is a big year for the worldwide and very famous Steiff Club, as it is the 20th anniversary of the club itself.

In commemoration of this event, Steiff has created Louis (as shown to the left) to honor this milestone event. Also, known as "Club Edition 2012 Louis Teddy Bear", this incredible bear stands 14-1/2 inches tall and is made from high quality burgundy alpaca. Production is limited to the year 2012. He has a gold-plated 'Button in Ear' ear tag which is Steiff Bears speciality mark on all of their items.

To make Louise even more special, the soles of his teddy bear paws are embroidered with "Steiff Club" on the right sole and "1992 - 2012" on the left sole.

Truly a Steiff heirloom piece to be treasured for years and years. . .

Quote of the Day - "Life is like a game of cards. The hand that is dealt you represents determinism; the way you play it is free will." - Jawaharal Nehru

Did You See Steiff Bears on the SAP Commercial?

We were watching the Bloomberg Evening News the other day and were surprised to see an SAP commercial (which stands for Standard Assessment Procedure) include a Steiff Bear with the famous 'Button in Ear' ear tag being pulled in a red wagon by a little girl.

We knew that Steiff utilized the SAP software in their operations. Upon further research, found that the main headquarters of Steiff, located in Giengen, Germany, has been using SAP since the year 2003. For those of you who did not know, SAP is a German global software corporation that provides enterprise software applications and support to businesses around the world.

Pictured left is one incredible Steiff Bear that we just received in named "Teddy Bear Replica 1906 Caramel EAN 403064". He is quite massive in stature and very impressive by the way. . .

Quote of the Day - "Believe It! High expectations are the key to everything." - Sam Walton