What is so special about steiff bears?

We often see Steiff bears come through our doors, and it’s easy to understand why they are treasured around the world. But what makes them stand out from any other teddy bear? These iconic bears are not just toys; they are works of art, pieces of history, and valuable collector’s items. Here’s why Steiff bears are so exceptional.

They invented the teddy bear

Steiff is the company that brought the world the teddy bear. In 1902, Richard Steiff designed the 55 PB bear, the first jointed teddy bear, made from fine mohair plush. It could sit and move its limbs, a major innovation at the time.

The bear gained international fame after it was associated with President Theodore Roosevelt, who famously refused to shoot a bear on a hunting trip. This moment inspired the name Teddy Bear, sparking a craze that continues today.

Today, Steiff continues to celebrate its heritage with modern and replica editions, linking collectors with more than a century of history.

Signature features that set them apart

Steiff bears are instantly recognisable thanks to a few key features that make them authentic and collectable:

• Button in ear: Introduced in 1904, the small brass button in the bear’s left ear guarantees authenticity. Paired with a fabric tag, it protects against counterfeits and indicates the bear’s edition, which can greatly affect value on the second-hand market.
• Premium materials: High-quality mohair and alpaca plush make Steiff bears soft, durable, and heirloom-worthy. Even more playful models are made to last, carefully hand-finished with attention to detail.
• Unique design: Each bear has expressive features. From the cheerful Teddy Baby to the elegant Original Teddy, Steiff bears display individual character, with carefully shaped noses, articulated limbs, and distinctive colouring that make each one unique. Collectors also love special editions, such as bears with painted paw pads, ribbon accessories, or limited-run colours.

Collector appeal of steiff bears

Steiff bears are highly prized in the second-hand market for several reasons:

• Rarity and limited editions: Some bears are produced in small numbers, such as anniversary editions, museum replicas, or collaborative designs. Such pieces are highly sought after by collectors.
• Provenance and history: Bears with known origins, age, or historic connections are particularly valuable. Early 20th-century models or those once owned by famous individuals can attract significant interest.
• Auction record prices: Rare Steiff bears have sold for six-figure sums, with some luxury collaboration pieces reaching over £1.6 million.

Collectors often pay close attention to tag colour, edition numbers, and materials, as these details indicate authenticity and rarity, directly affecting value.

Steiff’s sentimental value

Steiff bears are often passed down through generations. Their heirloom potential comes from both design and durability, they are moisture-resistant, robust yet soft, and always beautifully finished. Families treasure them as symbols of comfort, tradition, and memory.

Steiff’s motto, “Only the best is good enough for children”, reflects this enduring commitment to quality, safety, and lasting appeal.

Did you know this about the Steiff bear?

• The first bear, 55 PB, was 55 cm tall and jointed at the limbs.
• The cheerful Petsy bear, introduced in the 1920s, was one of the first jointed bears designed to be machine washable.
• Steiff now uses sustainable materials, such as recycled PET bottles, for modern bears like Lio (2024).
• Steiff have a variety of limited-edition bears in collaboration with brands and franchises, including movie-themed designs, charity editions, and designer partnerships, often featuring unique ribbons, embroidery, or packaging.

Why Steiff bears remain iconic

Steiff bears are at once toys, heirlooms, and collectable art. Their history, signature features, and the stories attached to each bear make them cherished within families.

At PM Antiques we have a wide range of these lovable bears, from limited-edition movie pieces like James Bond and Donald Duck, to life-size bears, and classic models for collectors. Each bear tells a story and carries a legacy that few toys can match.

Discover a Steiff bear for yourself. Contact us at PM Antiques to explore authentic bears, learn their history, and find a treasured piece to add to your collection or family memories.