A vintage Merrythought mohair Punkinhead Bear, made in the UK, circa 1950-55
I've owned this bear since I was a child -- it was given to me by my aunt, who lived in Toronto. Verified to be at least 65 years old. We always called him Punkinhead, so at one point I must have had the packaging. He's in very good condition for his age. Quoted next is what I've learned from an internet search: "RARE MERRYTHOUGHT PUNKINHEAD BEAR FROM 1950s. HE IS A UNIQUE CHARACTER WITH HIS WHITE TUFT OF HAIR! THIS IS IN ALL ORIGINAL CONDITION WITH HIS BLUE FELT SHORTS. MEASURING IN AT APPROX. 12” inches high. THIS BEAR IS FULLY JOINTED WITH HIS MERRYTHOUGHT LABEL STILL REMAINING. PUNKINHEAD WAS THE FORERUNNER TO " CHEEKY" AND WAS MADE FOR EATONS DEPARTMENT STORE IN CANADA FROM 1949-1956. HE BECAME THE MASCOT FOR THE ANNUAL CHRISTMAS PARADE."
12" tall
Inherited
Yes
Hi Karen,
Thank you for contacting Mearto with your appraisal inquiry.
Merrythought is one of the most renowned British teddy bear manufacturers, known for its high-quality, hand-crafted bears. The company has a rich history that dates back to 1930, when it was founded in Ironbridge, Shropshire, England. As you rightly cite, Punkinhead was designed by Florence Attwood, Merrythought's chief designer. Produced exclusively for Eaton's department store in Toronto, it became the main character in a series of children's books published by Eaton's, further enhancing its popularity.
These bears come to auction from time to time and usually sell between £500-£800 ($600-$1,000).
Based on the photos and information provided, and subject to examination, this is:
A vintage Merrythought mohair Punkinhead Bear
made in the UK, circa 1950-55
Made with plush golden mohair, stuffed with Kapok or wood wool (excelsior), felt paws, glass eyes, hand-stitched nose and mouth, and still wears its original blue felt shorts. Labeled to the underside of its foot.
12 inches tall
CONDITION: This bear appears to be in very good original condition
PROVENANCE: Inherited
£500-800 ($600-1,000)*
*represents a fair-market value for auction purposes; retail or asking price may vary.
Please let us know if you have additional items to appraise, or questions/concerns, and thank you again for using Mearto.
~ Delia
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