This is a teddy that was given to my mum as a hand me down. Mum is now 94. I estimate that this bear is approx 100-110 years old. Based upon my basic research it appears to have all of the features or a Steiff Teddy Girl. I hope you can assist with further info and a valuation.
380mm tall.
This is a teddy that was give to my mum in the late 1920s. She has travelled back and forward England to Australia by steamer and around the world numerous times by cargo ship. Mum also won a scholarship in England and learnt to fly a Tiger Moth. She always travelled and flew with teddy. It was passed down to me when I was 8 years old. I recently returned teddy to mum as she is in aged care with dementia as I thought it would be a comfort to her. Her face lit up when she saw teddy.
Hello Peter,
I’m very glad that you chose Mearto for your online appraisal,
Considering the photographs, overall pattern, brand and the colours, I concluded that this is an Antique Steiff Brand Teddy Bear. Steiff is considered as one of the most important teddy bear brands, which most examples are know collectibles. This piece dates back to the period from 1910 to 1930. The pieces were almost always comes with a metal tag to the ear with a Steiff writing. This metal tag was not used during the WWII and couple of following years due to metal shortage. The piece doesn't date to this period and the tag likely fell of based on the signs of use. The piece was likely as usual to piece from the early 1920's made of mohair. The eyes might have been replaced since the eyes were either glass or shoe button during this period. knitted nose and mouth, jointed limbs. The piece has a light beige tone, we mostly encounter beige tones from this era. The piece is in fair condition with signs of use and age on the piece, eyes might require restoration.
Steiff Teddy Bear.
Dimensions: 38 Centimeters Tall
Condition: The piece is in fair condition with signs of use and age on the piece, eyes might require restoration.
Provenance: Inherited from the current owner's mother, the current owner's mother was given this piece back in 1920's when she was 8 years old.
100-200$.
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Dear Peter,
I've attached the appraisal based on the given information, I hope I was able to provide a satisfactory service. I'm sending my best wishes and loev to your mother.
Kind regards,
DD
Hi Denizalp,
Thank you very much for your prompt response.
I am unsure of the answer to both your questions.
Mum has dementia and has deteriorated rather rapidly over the past few months.
She can’t remember if the eyes were replaced, I will forward images of behind the eyes as this may help. Or will attach to original request.
There may have been a metal button on the left ear that has come off. The old girl has had a lot of love over the years.
I do believe that they stopped putting the metal buttons on during the war years due to metal shortages. The time line does marry up with this fact.
I look forward to further correspondence.
Kind regards
Peter Hayton