From The Steiff Archive: The Snowman Skiing - 26cm

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.

Paying tribute to Raymond Briggs' charming character from his 1978 book, Steiff have crafted The Snowman from the Steiff Archive from the finest, short pile white mohair fabric. He features three buttons on his chest, his famous tangerine nose and wears his green hat with matching scarf. He holds a pair ski poles and comes with wooden skis complete with foot straps and, for the perfect finishing touch, he has a wonderful stitched smile - making him the perfect gift for any lover of Raymond Briggs' famous animated film and Christmas alike!

This Snowman skiing, originally released in 2004, is limited to 1500 pieces, has been made exclusively for the Guild of Specialist Gift Retailers and comes with his numbered certificate in original Steiff gift box.

• Size: 26cm / 10.25 inches
• Jointed Head
• 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.