Steiff Ear Tag Appraisal

Vintage Steiff Donkey Esel Figurine with Ear Tag

This is a vintage Steiff donkey (Esel) stuffed animal, produced in Germany, likely dating from the 1950s to early 1960s based on its material and construction. The toy features a tan or light caramel-colored short-pile mohair or velvet-like fabric body, standing in a fixed upright position. Notable physical characteristics include a black mohair mane, a braided rope tail, and black stitched hooves. It is adorned with its original red plastic or vinyl bridle and reins, which are secured with small silver-toned metal rivets. A critical identifier is the yellow Steiff ear tag ('Fahne') attached via a nickel-plated 'button in ear,' indicating its authenticity and origin. The tag shows some wear but retains visible 'Made in Germany' text. Condition-wise, the item shows moderate age-related patina; the fabric remains largely intact but displays slight thinning and a vertical dark smudge or wear mark on its left flank. The red bridle exhibits minor surface cracking typical of vintage synthetic materials. This figurine exemplifies the high craftsmanship of the post-WWII Steiff era, featuring hand-stitched details and expressive glass or plastic bead eyes that add character and value for collectors of antique plush toys.