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Hi! My name is Anita, and I make teddy bears!

Wilhelm Strunz commenced business in 1902 in Nuremberg, one of the most famous traditional toy making regions of the country. Some of the earlier designs included felt dolls, followed by other soft toys in around 1904.

Collecting teddies does not necessarily have to be limited to the cuddly variety. After the success of our best-loved friend in the early 1900s, all kinds of articles began springing up on the market that many collectors hunt avidly for today. Bear-related items such as children’s playthings, books, postcards, china, carvings and silver objects may all be displayed along side the furry bruins to bring a collection magically to life.

It wasn’t simply the cuddly variety of bruins that became popular as “Teddy Mania” swept the globe in the early part of the 20th century. Bears also appeared on china wear, jugs, plates, postcards and stationery, such was their popularity. Books began appearing too, and children thrilled at the adventures of characters in print.

Farnell “Soldier” bears, were initially made as mascots during the First World War. They have been attributed in the past to German manufacturers, yet have since been discovered with the Farnell label still attached. Often they were bought by a loved one for a young soldier going off to war. These little teds were available in a variety of colours including the patriotic red, white and blue, as well as the usual blonde mohair. Sizes ranged from 3” (8cm) to 5” (13cm).

The quality of an early Farnell teddy bear, together with their realistic qualities, is what makes these delightful companions so highly sought after amongst collectors today. It is widely believed that some of the first bruins ever produced were in fact the creations of this renowned company. Auction prices for good early examples appear to be increasing all the time.

It is every collector's dream to find a special bargain at one time or another. There is a great sense of satisfaction in discovering that an old ted purchased at a car boot sale turned out to be worth a fortune! However, finding a great buy is never quite so straightforward and it is important to know exactly what you are looking for. As with many sought after items, reproductions and fakes exist on the teddy bear world and must be spotted to avoid expensive mistakes. It may be that the toys of today are the antiques of tomorrow – so where do you start and what do you look for?

What qualities do you need to look for when buying a vintage bear? What makes a certain old bruin more valuable than another? Is it better to buy in mint condition rather than a more loved character? How can a value truly be determined? What would make the best investment? How can I be sure the bear is genuine and that I am getting what I am paying for? Should I buy on line?

On 14 November 1902, Theodore "Teddy" Roosevelt, the 26th President of the United States of America was invited to take time out after some hard political bargaining over the disputed boundaries between the states of Mississippi and Louisiana. His hosts took him on a hunting trip to an area near Little Sunflower River in Mississippi.