Steiff Miniature Original Teddy Bear

This is a vintage Steiff miniature 'Original Teddy' bear, likely dating from the mid-20th century (circa 1950s-1960s) based on its identification tags. The bear is crafted from a light caramel-colored mohair plush with a distinctively coarse, bristly texture typical of miniature Steiff animals. It features a hand-stitched nose and mouth in dark brown embroidery floss and small black bead eyes. A significant value indicator is the presence of its original identification: a yellow ear tag featuring the serial number '5310,02', the classic Steiff 'Button in Ear' (Knopf im Ohr), and a circular orange and blue chest tag labeled 'Original Teddy'. Physically, the bear appears in good vintage condition, though the mohair shows some minor thinning and matting consistent with age. The yellow cloth tag exhibits some fraying and discoloration. The bear is fully jointed at the limbs and head, showcasing the high-quality craftsmanship of the Giengen, Germany-based manufacturer. Its small scale, approximately 3 to 4 inches in height, makes it a highly collectible piece for enthusiasts of German stuffed toys.

I have carefully examined the provided images of this Steiff 'Original Teddy' Miniature Bear (Series 5310,02). The presence of the 'Button in Ear,' the yellow flag with a legible serial number, and the chest tag suggests this bear was produced between 1959 and 1964. The caramel mohair shows slight thinning and the ear tag exhibits fraying, placing it in 'Good' to 'Very Good' vintage condition. Authenticity is supported by the specific font on the tag and the hand-embroidered facial features consistent with Steiff's mid-century Giengen factory standards. The market for vintage Steiff remains robust, especially for examples retaining all three points of identification (button, flag, and chest tag). Recent auction comparables for the 10cm (approx. 4-inch) 5310,02 model in similar condition typically range from $225 to $450. The value is buoyed by the completeness of its ID, though slightly hampered by the surface matting and tag wear. However, a definitive authentication is limited by the digital format. A physical inspection is required to confirm the density and scent of the mohair (checking for mold or dry rot), ensure the joints are fully functional without internal structural failure, and verify the metal composition of the button. Provenance documentation or a purchase history would further solidify its valuation. For a formal insurance valuation, I would need to tactilely verify the firmness of the wood-wool or excelsior stuffing and confirm the absence of restoration or replaced stitching.