Steiff has to be one of the most prestigious teddy bears around. Margarete Steiff was the founder of the company. She was born on July 24, 1847. She was a seamstress and started making stuffed animals in 1880. Tragically, Margarete was confined to a wheelchair after contracting polio. This led to her making stuffed animals as a hobby, beginning with elephants that were sold as pincushions to her friends. Eventually she expanded to produce other animals such as cats and dogs. Her nephew Richard Steiff was the man who designed the renowned Steiff Teddy Bear.

In 1905 the Steiff Teddy Bear gained its famous Button in the Ear trademark. The Teddy Bear was so popular that the factory was forced to expand three times between 1903 and 1908.

Although Margarete Steiff died on May 9, 1909, the company is still active today producing many high quality but expensive toys. However, they may be expensive but they are still a joy to collect and when you pick one up you can feel the workmanship that has gone into these toys. The teddies are usually made of Mohair, jointed and often with growlers. They are still recognisable by the famous button in the ear. Look out for White Labels as these are Limited Editions so only a few numbers are made.