Old Jointed Teddy Bear

I don't usually buy things like this, but the price was right. The bear seems to be early, with a hump on its back and a growler or similar noise maker in the back. It measures 20 inches tall. I'm hoping someone might know the maker. Possibly Chad Valley? I found a similar one on ebay that was sold out of Australia. http://www.ebay.com/itm/SUPERB-VINTAGE-GROWLER-TEDDY-BEAR-/391197039960 .

 

Wow! I'd say that teddy bear has had one bucket full of lovin'!!!!! Unless he's one of the very early ones, my general opinion would be that he's NOT Steiff. Might be hard to see if there's any indication of a "small button hole" in his left ear. Would doubt it's still there. (BTW...The button wasn't added to the bears until 1904) Your pics are pretty good, I would send them to.....http://mysteifflife.blogspot.com/p/consigning-with-steiffgal.html , she is a pretty good resource for telling you if it is Steiff or not! She is ALL about Steiff. If it IS....you may have some decent money!! Well worth checking her out, and she WILL get back to you!!!!

A number of years ago, my BIL was moving and having a yard sale....he had a beat up bear (NOT as old as yours!) in a give-away-pile that I saw and grabbed it out just before people started coming (IT WAS Steiff!)....sent it to a stuffed animal dealer (now deceased) and snagged my BIL $300.00!!!! From the time I was five or six, my parents were always giving me a Steiff animal for my birthdays, so I kind of grew up with them!! HA! Wish I hadn't sold most of them off over the years now!!!! Best of luck with yours!!
Sue

 

Is that a STEIFF button in his ear? Am I hallucinating? Photo #5?

 

I'm pretty sure it's not a steiff, sadly. The feet just aren't right. There doesn't appear to be any holes or indications there was a button on the ears.

I read through that link and she seems to only want top end stuff that's 100% steiff, so I don't think i'll bother her with this. Thanks though.

 

Wasn't there a British company that made really good, well loved, bears?

 

Merrythought or Bedford? Great British Teddy Bear Co.? I have a friend who is bear-crazy.

 

Merrythought. He might well be.