Collect Steiff Stuffed Animals

Just about everybody had a treasured stuffed toy when they were young. The feeling of happiness and nostalgia of these toys is what makes some adults become collectors of them, namely stuffed animals from Steiff. They are in high demand by collectors when available at fairs and auctions, namely stuffed bears. The legend of Steiff stuffed animals started sometime in 1880 in Germany, in the town of Giengen an der Brenz. Margarete Steiff, a wheelchair bound seamstress, made toy animals from her own designs as a hobby.

They were mostly of dogs, cats, pigs and elephants. Stuffed animals that we know of today began when Richard Steiff, a nephew of Margarette, created the first toy bear with jointed limbs in 1902. This bear with jointed limbs became popular worldwide, and as a result, it was the winner at the World Exhibition that was held in 1094 in St. Louis. It was later named after President Teddy Roosevelt and became known as the teddy bear. The company is known for its high quality creations, which are still made in the town of Giengen. The town of Giengen is considered a mecca for lovers of stuffed animals, and visitors can experience an Adventure Museum as well as the Steiff factory. The museum tells the history of the products and a gift shop sells bears, replicas of past animal products, historic catalogues and porcelain.

The Steiff Classic range is the line that is most sought after by collectors, featuring a wide variety of animals that are all hand made. A majority of the creations date back to the early 1900's up to the 1920's. There is also a bear with a stitched on Valentine's heart, which makes a romantic gift. The range also includes characters from the Beatrix Potter stories, including Peter Rabbit and the Mrs. Tiggy Winkle hedgehog. Another children's favorite that is available is the Paddington Bear, with his trademark blue hat and red duffle coat. The majority of Steiff baby animals are created with babies and toddlers in mind. Teddy bears, kittens and puppies are included in this collection that is designed from durable, high quality materials.

The Cosy Animal line has machine washable animals and there are also children's clothes, keyrings, bags and gift sets. Another great collection is the Steiff Limited Edition selection that showcases a pink and grey replica of the world famous 1908 teddy bear. You can also find a Moon Bear, a Grizzly Bear and a cute Pierrot Bear in the selection. Another one of my favorites in this range is the famous character from story books, the Rupert Bear. However, the teddy bear will continue to be the toy that is most associated with the company.

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