A teddy bear lover’s treasured collection of more than 70 toys – including vintage Steiffs – are set to raise thousands of pounds for animals.
The teds, gifted to London’s Battersea Dogs and Cats Home, could raise in the region of £5,000 for the famous charity. They will go under the hammer at Hansons Auctioneers’ Staffordshire saleroom on March 1.
Hansons’ toy consultant Janet Rawnsley said: “It’s an incredible collection of teddy bears of all shapes, sizes, colours and designs. They arrived in multiple cardboard boxes and it’s been a long but thoroughly enjoyable job to catalogue each one.
“The collection brims with vintage Steiffs made in the 1980s and 90s. Some of these are replicas of classic early designs from the famous German manufacturer. There are also some beautiful Harrods special editions.”
The enticing mix includes everything from a replica of a Steiff Teddy Clown from 1926 (estimate £150-£180) to a Steiff ‘Marianne Meisel’ exclusive 2007 bear boasting coral pink mohair (£80-£120).
Janet said: “These teddy bears have been treasured for decades. They come to auction with their original boxes and are in excellent condition. They were amassed over many years by a lady in Battersea. When she passed away her family thought it would be fitting to donate her collection to the animal charity.
“Already bids are pouring in ahead of the sale. I hope we sell every single one and raise as much money as possible for this vital cause. There is something for every pocket with lots ranging from from £30-£40 to £150-£180 for rarer examples. Many of the bears are guided at £60-£80.
“It’s an unmissable auction for any keen teddy bear collector. Not only can they source some beautiful toys, they can aid a great charity cause too.”
Battersea Dogs and Cats Home offers expert care to dogs and cats in need of rescue, rehabilitation and rehoming. The charity relies on the generosity of the public to fund its work.
Auction: The teddy bears are being offered in Hansons’ March 1 Bishton Hall Teddy Bears, Dolls and Textiles Auction in Staffordshire.
Catalogue/bidding: www.hansonslive.co.uk | www.the-saleroom.com
Enquiries: [email protected]
