A Guide to Collecting Teddy Bears: From Vintage to Modern, Mohair to Plush
A beginners guide to teddy bear collecting.
Teddy bears have been cherished collectibles for over a century, beloved by children and adults alike. From vintage bears made with mohair to modern plush creations, the world of teddy bear collecting is vast and varied. Whether you’re a newcomer or an experienced collector, understanding the different types of bears, their materials, and what makes them valuable can enhance your appreciation for these cuddly companions.
This guide will walk you through the essentials of collecting teddy bears, with a focus on vintage pieces, the importance of condition, and the world of mohair bears—the holy grail for many collectors.
The History of Teddy Bears
The teddy bear first gained mass popularity in the early 20th century, with two separate origins attributed to the United States and Germany:
- In 1902, U.S. President Theodore Roosevelt (nicknamed Teddy) famously refused to shoot a bear cub during a hunting trip. This incident inspired Morris Michtom, a Brooklyn-based toy maker, to create a stuffed bear in Roosevelt's honor, calling it "Teddy's bear."
- Around the same time, in Germany, Richard Steiff, nephew of toymaker Margarete Steiff, designed a jointed bear made from plush, launching it at the Leipzig Toy Fair in 1903. The Steiff company soon became world-renowned for their high-quality, handcrafted bears.
Since then, teddy bears have evolved in style, material, and production methods, becoming a global phenomenon with a thriving collector market.
Understanding Teddy Bear Materials
The material a teddy bear is made from can significantly impact its value and desirability.
Mohair
- What it is: Mohair is a luxurious fabric made from the hair of the Angora goat. It has a silky sheen, softness, and durability, making it ideal for high-quality, vintage teddy bears.
- Why it’s valuable: Mohair bears, especially those made by famous brands like Steiff, are often considered more valuable due to their craftsmanship and the premium quality of the fabric.
- Collectible brands: Brands like Steiff, Chad Valley, and Schuco are known for their mohair teddy bears, many of which are now highly collectible.
Plush
- What it is: Plush is a synthetic or cotton-blend fabric commonly used in mass-produced modern teddy bears. It’s soft, but less durable than mohair.
- Why it’s common: Plush is less expensive to produce than mohair, making it the go-to material for modern bears and more accessible collectibles.
Other Materials:
- Velvet and wool felt: Occasionally used for specific features, such as paws or ears on early teddy bears.
- Cotton or wool stuffing: Early bears were often filled with materials like kapok, wool, or even wood wool (excelsior), while modern bears are typically filled with polyester fiber.
Types of Collectible Teddy Bears
Teddy bears come in many forms, and some categories are more collectible than others.
Vintage Teddy Bears
- What they are: Typically, teddy bears produced before 1970 are considered vintage. The earlier the bear, the more collectible it is, especially if it’s from a well-known maker like Steiff or Farnell.
- Key features: Vintage bears often have jointed limbs, glass eyes, and mohair fur. They might also show signs of wear, such as faded fur or repairs, which add to their charm and historical value.
- Popular brands: Steiff (Germany), Merrythought (UK), Chad Valley (UK), Ideal (US), Farnell (UK).
Artist Bears
- What they are: Handcrafted, limited-edition bears created by individual artists. These bears are often one-of-a-kind and highly detailed, making them popular among collectors.
- Why they’re collectible: Artist bears emphasize craftsmanship, with unique designs and premium materials. Collectors often focus on specific artists known for their distinctive styles.
Modern Collectible Bears
- What they are: These include bears produced by brands like Build-A-Bear, Boyds Bears, and Ty, often in limited editions or for special events.
- Why they’re collectible: Modern bears may not carry the same historical value as vintage bears, but limited editions or exclusive releases can still become valuable over time.
Commemorative and Limited-Edition Bears
- What they are: Bears created to celebrate anniversaries, events, or iconic figures. These are often produced in limited numbers and come with certificates of authenticity.
- Why they’re collectible: Limited supply and the significance of the event or occasion can make these bears highly sought after.
Why Mohair Bears Are Special:
Mohair bears are often seen as the pinnacle of teddy bear collecting due to their luxurious, durable material and historical significance. Made from the hair of Angora goats, mohair is soft, shiny, and resistant to wear, making it perfect for vintage bears.
- Rarity: Many of the oldest and most valuable teddy bears were made with mohair, particularly in the early 1900s.
- Durability: Mohair ages well, often lasting decades if properly cared for. Vintage mohair bears tend to develop a unique patina, which collectors love.
- Luxury: Mohair is a high-end fabric, so these bears were considered luxury items, especially when they were first made.
Mohair bears, especially from brands like Steiff, are often passed down through generations and continue to be a favorite among serious collectors.
Key Brands for Mohair Collectors
Steiff
- Founded: 1880 (Germany)
- Signature Feature: The famous "Button in Ear" trademark on their teddy bears.
- Why collect: Steiff is the gold standard for teddy bear collectors, especially for those looking for vintage or mohair bears. Their attention to detail and use of high-quality materials make Steiff bears some of the most valuable on the market.
- Founded: 1930 (UK)
- Signature Feature: Known for their classic British designs and hand-crafted mohair bears - their signature style bear is called a cheeky bear.
- Why collect: Merrythought is highly regarded for producing traditional-style bears that appeal to collectors of vintage and handmade teddies.
- Founded: 19th century (UK)
- Signature Feature: Known for producing high-quality mohair bears during the 20th century.
- Why collect: Chad Valley is famous for their collectible, vintage bears, often sought after by UK collectors.
- Founded: 1979 (US)
- Signature Feature: Affordable and mass-produced, but with a focus on charm and whimsy.
- Why collect: While not as valuable as mohair or vintage brands, Boyds Bears have a large collector base, particularly for themed or holiday bears.
- Founded: 1903 (UK)
- Signature Feature: Known for their detailed, handmade bears, often crafted from mohair and featuring embroidered paw pads and expressive faces.
- Why collect: As one of the oldest UK teddy bear manufacturers, Dean's Bears are prized for their craftsmanship and heritage. Collectors seek out their limited-edition bears and vintage designs, especially those made from mohair.
Factors That Affect a Teddy Bear’s Value
Several factors can influence the value of a teddy bear:
1. Age
- Vintage bears, especially those produced before the 1950s, are typically more valuable. Pre-WWII bears from companies like Steiff or Farnell often fetch high prices.
- Certain brands, like Steiff and Merrythought, have a strong reputation for quality and craftsmanship, making their bears more collectible.
- Bears made from mohair are generally more valuable than those made from synthetic plush. The condition of the mohair fur, even if worn or faded, adds to a bear's charm and history.
- Bears in mint condition, with intact fur, joints, and original tags, are more valuable. However, even well-loved bears with minor wear can be desirable if they’re rare or from a well-known maker.
- Having the original tags or labels significantly boosts a teddy bear’s value. For example, Steiff’s button-in-ear tags or Merrythought’s sewn-in labels are coveted by collectors.
- Bears with known provenance (ownership history, such as celebrity-owned) or limited-edition numbers can command higher prices.
- Limited-edition bears or bears from discontinued production lines can fetch premium prices due to their scarcity.
Tips for New Teddy Bear Collectors
- Start Small: Begin with modern collectible bears or affordable vintage bears to build your knowledge and experience.
- Research Brands: Learn about the different brands and makers, especially those known for quality and collectible value, like Steiff, Merrythought, and Chad Valley.
- Examine the Bear’s Condition: Look for bears with minimal damage or repairs. However, some collectors appreciate the character that comes with wear on older bears.
- Check for Tags or Labels: Original tags, labels, and buttons can add significant value, especially for brands like Steiff.
- Invest in Mohair Bears: If you’re looking for long-term value, mohair bears, especially from vintage makers, are a smart investment due to their craftsmanship and durability.
- Store Your Collection Properly: To keep your bears in good condition, store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If possible, avoid plastic bags, as they can trap moisture, causing damage over time.
Whether you’re drawn to the charm of vintage mohair bears or the playful designs of modern creations, teddy bears offer a delightful and rewarding collectible hobby. With their rich history, craftsmanship, and endless variety, teddy bear collecting is a hobby that appeals to all ages. Start your collection with a bear that speaks to you, and who knows—it might just become a lifelong passion!