The story of Steiff is more than just a tale of plush toys; it's a testament to innovation, quality, and the enduring power of a single idea. The German company, founded in 1880 by Margarete Steiff, began with a simple felt elephant pincushion. It wasn't long before children adopted these little creations as toys, and a legacy was born. Steiff's motto, "Only the best is good enough for our children," has been the guiding principle for over a century, ensuring that every product is crafted with the utmost care and quality.
We are so grateful to offer Steiff plush here at www.hugsandlove.com.au and at our shop at 114 Glenferrie Road, Malvern, Victoria, Australia. We understand the importance of this brand in the history of plush in the world.
The pivotal moment in Steiff's history came in 1902 when Margarete's nephew, Richard Steiff, designed the world's first plush bear with movable arms and legs—the "Bear 55 PB." The bear's fame exploded after a cartoonist depicted US President Theodore "Teddy" Roosevelt with a bear cub he refused to shoot, leading to the name "Teddy Bear." This invention cemented Steiff's place in history and established them as a global leader in plush toys.
What truly sets a Steiff creation apart is the unwavering commitment to craftsmanship and material excellence. Each piece is meticulously handcrafted in Germany using only the finest, non-toxic materials like mohair and sustainable alternatives. A Steiff toy can be identified by its famous "Button in Ear" trademark, a symbol of authenticity and quality that has been used since 1904 to protect the toys from imitation. Different coloured tags on the button—such as yellow for unlimited editions and white and red for special limited editions—indicate the toy's status, making them cherished collectibles for adults as well as beloved companions for children.
For those looking for a special addition to their collection, the Hugs & Love website offers a variety of Steiff products, including limited-edition collector's pieces such as the Monty Python "Dead Parrot," The Beatles "Sgt Pepper Bear," and various James Bond themed bears. They also feature a range of classic cuddly friends, from traditional teddy bears to a host of other animals and characters. Whether you're looking for a priceless collector's item or a new best friend for a little one, a Steiff toy is an investment in a piece of history that promises to be a source of comfort and joy for generations.
Beyond their historical significance, Steiff toys hold considerable value as collectibles. The brand's commitment to limited-edition pieces, signified by the iconic "Button in Ear" with special coloured tags, creates a market for rare and sought-after items. Collectors are drawn to these exclusive creations, from collaborations with pop culture icons like Monty Python and The Beatles to classic teddy bears with limited production runs. This scarcity often means that the toys can appreciate in value over time, making them not just a source of joy but also a potential investment. The emotional connection is also a powerful driver; many people collect Steiff to relive childhood memories or to pass on a tradition of quality and comfort to the next generation. A Steiff collection is therefore not just an assortment of plush animals, but a curated treasure trove of stories, craftsmanship, and enduring value.