We all remember the favourite cuddly animal toy we had when we were children. There to comfort us when we cried, joining us on trips to the park and days out… For many people, a childhood stuffed toy is often priceless in terms of sentimental value. It is this nostalgic love for these toys which have made Steiff bears become such an extremely popular collector’s item. Do you own a vintage Steiff bear? Did you know it could make you a lot of money at auction? Find out more here...
Steiff began making soft animal toys in Germany in the late 1800s. But it was only when the company produced their now famous ‘Teddy’ bears in 1902 that Steiff started to gain their popularity and recognition of today. Still operating out of Giengen an der Brenz in Germany, Steiff continues to make myriad bears and other high quality animals. But it’s their vintage and special edition Steiff animals that are so popular amongst collectors and it’s easy to see why.
Five Top Selling Steiffs on Catawiki
Every month, we auction Steiff bears and other animals in our Doll and Bear auction. Let’s explore the most expensive Steiff animals which have sold on Catawiki.
5. Steiff Harley Davidson Bear - Germany - €250
This biking bear was released to commemorate Harley Davidson’s 100th anniversary, in a run of just 5000. With his charming leather cap, jacket and silver logo, such a special edition bear deservedly picked up this good price at auction.
4. Steiff - Bear on Wheels - Germany - €350
Why have just a regular bear, when you could have a bear on wheels? Manufactured from 1918 to 1920, this friendly-looking original Steiff was a wheel-y good sale for the owner and made the buyer very happy as well.
3. Mickey and Minnie - Happy 70th Year - Limited edition - Japan - €375
A very unique set for any collection. Only 3,000 Mickey and Minnie Steiffs were made for the Japanese market. As Mickey would say, “Oh boy!”
2. Steiff Pikachu - Japan (Pokemon) - €415
Thanks to the recent surge in popularity of Pokémon GO, this Pikachu Steiff is a real fan favourite! Many may try to “catch ‘em all” but few will succeed; only 1500 of these dolls were made making this lot a very exciting find.
1. Steiff-Hund "Rattler" - €425
Who could resist this adorable face? Certainly not the buyer of the lot! At €425, this is the most expensive Steiff that has been sold on Catawiki. Perhaps you have something even more adorable and you’d like to see how much you can make? Read on!
What should you Focus on When You Want to Value Your Stuffed Animal?
1. Condition of the Stuffed Animal
By nature, a Steiff bear is a toy. That means if your bear is particularly old, it’s likely to have been well loved and played with. But if your bear is in good condition (bonus if it’s like new or never been played with), it will likely fetch a higher price at auction.
2. Labels and Tags Still Attached
Check that your bear still has its original label. Look out for the chest tag, button in ear or ear tags. Bears with their labels intact (and in good condition) will always be more highly prized amongst collectors.
3. Rarity
If the bear was released in one country only or was produced for just a short amount of time, the better your chances are of picking up a lot of buyer attention. The less there is of something, the more in demand and the higher the value.
Are you curious what your Steiff could be worth and want to sell it on Catawiki? Start off by registering as a seller for free and then submit your item for auction. Or would you rather welcome a new Steiff into your home? Then check out our monthly Doll and Bear auction.