From The Steiff Archive: Snowball Teddy Bear Ornament - 11cm

Margarete Steiff established the company archive in 1880 in which at least one example of everything produced has been kept, including examples of every limited edition since the 1980’s. The numbers 1 and 12 of the editions, plus the prototype, were archived.
Why number 12? When limited editions were launched, the original idea was to archive 1 and 2 of an edition. However, it was decided not to take another single digit piece (No. 2) out of circulation, so a compromise was to take number 12, when 1 and 2 appear together.
Every archive piece is identified with an archive swing tag that details the piece, as well as an entry in the archive record books, which date back to Margarete’s days!
Each limited edition has its original gift box, some of which show archive details, and features an additional exclusive certificate to verify its origin as being from the archive.

This adorable snowball teddy bear ornament from the Steiff Archive is crafted from light blonde and white mohair fabrics. He features a chocolatey brown hand-stitched nose and mouth, black glass eyes and wears a cosy hand-knitted red, black and white scarf with matching hat. He can be suspended from his white ribbon atop his head so can be used as a decorative piece at Christmas or enjoyed all year long!

This bear, originally released in 2005, is limited to 5000 pieces worldwide and comes with a numbered certificate in it's original Steiff box with plastic window insert.

• Size: 11cm / 4.25 inches
• Unjointed
• Age: 14+
• Surface washable

Margarete Steiff GmbH is the oldest and most famous teddy bear and soft toy manufacturer in the world. Founded in 1880 by Margarete Steiff, the company motto is “Only the best is good enough for our children”. Credited with inventing the first teddy bear in 1902, the company is best known for its “Button in Ear” trademark.