Teddy Bear Auctions

Teddy bears have been a beloved part of British households for over 100 years, evoking fond memories of childhood, comfort, and joy. Whether passed down through generations or carefully curated by collectors, teddies have a special place in our hearts and homes. For many enthusiasts and collectors, the hunt for rare, valuable, or antique teddies is an exciting passion, collecting bears from iconic brands such as Steiff, Schuco, Merrythought, Charlie Bears, and Forget-Me-Not Bears.

At Cullens of Surrey Auctions, we offer a range of opportunities to buy and sell these cherished items. Whether you're looking to add a rare teddy bear to your collection or are ready to part with a beloved stuffed bear, our team is here to guide you. With expertise in the world of vintage and collectable toys, we understand the value of these timeless treasures!

Sell Your Teddies

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Background Information: The History of Teddy Bears

The story of the teddy bear begins with the creation of the first modern teddy bear by Margarete Steiff in 1903. Steiff, a German toy manufacturer, revolutionised the toy industry with her design - a bear that was jointed and could stand on its own. It was originally called the "Steiff Bear," and it quickly became a beloved companion for children around the world. However, teddy bears were not entirely new; stuffed animals had existed in various forms as far back as the 1700s and 1800s, with early examples often made of cloth and filled with straw or sawdust.

However, it was Steiff's innovation and the subsequent widespread popularity of teddy bears that solidified the toy's place in history. The teddy bear became a symbol of childhood innocence and comfort, captivating children and collectors alike. Over time, other iconic brands like Schuco, Merrythought, and Charlie Bears emerged, each contributing its unique style and craftsmanship to the world of teddy bears.

Today, teddy bears remain one of the most popular and collectable toys in the world, with certain rare and antique examples fetching impressive prices at auction. Collectors actively seek out vintage and limited-edition bears, especially those from well-known historic brands, as well as contemporary favourites like Charlie Bears and Forget-Me-Not Bears.

High-Value Sales

Teddy bears can be much more than a nostalgic childhood companion - they can be a serious investment! Some of the most expensive and highly sought-after teddies have made headlines at auction. For example, in 2000, the Steiff Louis Vuitton teddy bear sold for a staggering £1.6 million ($2.1 million) at a Christie’s auction in Monaco. This one-of-a-kind bear was created in collaboration with the luxury fashion house Louis Vuitton and is made from gold threads, with a mouth of 24-carat gold and emerald eyes. It is considered one of the most expensive teddy bears ever sold!

Image credit - Hobby DB

Image credit - Best Dressed Bears

In 1994, a rare 1904 Steiff Teddy Bear known as “Teddy Girl” was sold for £110,000 at Christie’s South Kensington. This bear holds a unique place in history, having been taken into battle during World War II by Colonel Bob Henderson, a collector. It’s a fascinating example of how teddy bears can not only represent childhood joy but also connect to historical events.

General Tips for Buying and Selling Teddy Bears at Auction

Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned collector, navigating the auction world can be both exciting and overwhelming. To help you make the most of your teddy bear buying and selling experience, here are a few tips:

Tips for Buying Teddy Bears at Auction:

Verify the Item’s Authenticity: Always check for original tags, certificates, or markings that indicate the bear’s brand and year of manufacture - authenticity is key to determining a bear's value.
Know Your Budget: Decide on your maximum bid before entering the auction and stick to it. Auctions can be thrilling, but remaining disciplined is important to avoid overbidding.
Check Condition and Preservation: The condition of a teddy bear plays a significant role in its value. Look for signs of wear and tear, such as damage to joints, fur, or facial features. Teddies in excellent condition - especially antique ones - are often more valuable.
Research the Bear’s Value: Research similar bears or past auction sales to gauge a fair value for your potential purchase. Our team at Cullens of Surrey can help provide accurate valuations and offer expert guidance.

Tips for Selling Teddy Bears at Auction:

Provide Detailed Information: When selling your bear, make sure to provide as much detail as possible - brand, size, condition, historical context, and provenance. The more information you can offer, the more potential buyers will feel confident in placing a bid.
Cleanliness and Presentation: While you don’t want to restore or alter your bear, a gentle cleaning can help improve its appearance and attract more buyers. Ensure your bear is presented in its best light, especially in auction photography.
Consult with Experts: Having your bear professionally appraised can give you an accurate understanding of its market value. Cullens of Surrey provides expert valuations to help you make informed decisions when selling your teddy bears.
Time Your Sale: Auctions often have different levels of demand based on seasonality or market trends. Consult with our team to find the best time to sell, ensuring your bear gets the attention it deserves.

Looking to Sell With Us?

If you have teddy bears that you’re looking to sell, such as Steiff or Schuco, we offer various routes such as auction, direct purchasing, or third-party sellers. You can read about each selling route in more detail on our “Selling At Auction” page.

Explore Our Upcoming Auctions, Where Treasure Awaits!

At Cullens of Surrey, we pride ourselves on our expertise in teddy bears and vintage toys. With a deep understanding of the history and value of teddy bears, we offer personalised service for both buyers and sellers in the world of collectable, antique, and vintage bears.

Ready to join the exciting world of teddy bear auctions? Get in touch with us today to learn more about our upcoming auctions and services.