Chad Valley Jointed Plush Teddy Bear, c.1953–1960

A charming and well-loved mid-century Chad Valley teddy bear, dating from the period after 1953 and retaining the desirable Royal Warrant foot label reading “By Appointment to H.M. Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother”. The bear measures approximately 40 cm in height and is fully jointed at the shoulders and hips.

Constructed in pale blonde plush over a stuffed body, the bear retains its original black nose, glass eyes and characteristic Chad Valley expression. The surviving foot label provides an important dating point, as Chad Valley altered its Royal Warrant wording following the accession of Queen Elizabeth II, adopting the “Queen Mother” designation from 1953 onwards.

The bear displays extensive evidence of genuine childhood use and affection. There is overall wear the plush, both red rexine paw pads show significant wear, with historic darning and repairs visible to the arm pads. The label remains attached to one foot pad, although faded. The joints remain present and functional.

The tartan waistcoat and bow tie currently accompanying the bear are not believed to be original Chad Valley accessories and are included as later decorative additions.

Unlike many pristine collector examples, this bear possesses the honest wear and patina associated with a treasured childhood companion, making it an appealing example of Britain’s most celebrated twentieth-century toy manufacturer.

Maker: Chad Valley
Date: c.1953–1960
Material: Plush, rexine pads, glass eyes
Height: 40 cm
Construction: Fully jointed arms and legs
Condition: Well-loved antique condition with significant wear, thinning mohair, historic repairs and darning to paw pads, fading to label and surface ageing throughout. Later clothing not original to the bear.

Why Buy from Hornseys?

For almost fifty years, Hornseys has specialised in sourcing, researching and offering carefully selected works of art, rare books, antiques and collectable objects. Every Chad Valley teddy bear offered for sale is examined individually and catalogued with the same attention to detail that we apply throughout our business.

Expertise and Research

Our descriptions are based on careful first-hand examination and supported by research into Chad Valley manufacturing history, Royal Warrant labels, materials, construction methods and comparable recorded examples. Where possible, we identify date ranges, model characteristics, original features and any later alterations to provide collectors with accurate and transparent information.

Authenticity and Provenance

Authenticity is fundamental to our approach. We assess each bear for period materials, labels, construction details and condition, clearly noting restorations, replacements or associated items where known. We believe buyers should have confidence that every description reflects the object as it is, not as we would like it to be.

Condition Reporting

Vintage teddy bears inevitably show signs of age and use. We provide honest condition assessments, accompanied by comprehensive photography, so collectors can make informed decisions. Any wear, repairs, losses or alterations are described as accurately as possible.

Carefully Curated Selection

We do not aim to offer large quantities of stock. Instead, we focus on finding examples that possess quality, character, historical interest and visual appeal. Whether a bear is a rare early Chad Valley example or a charming post-war companion, it must meet our standards before being offered for sale.

Established Reputation

Hornseys has been serving collectors and enthusiasts since 1976. From our gallery in Ripon, on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales, we have built a reputation for knowledgeable cataloguing, careful packing and personal customer service.

Our Guarantee

Every item is sold with an unconditional guarantee. If you are not entirely satisfied with your purchase, you may return it within fourteen days of receipt for any reason, provided it is returned in the same condition in which it was supplied. We simply ask that you notify us in advance of any return.

Explore Our Chad Valley Collection

From early mohair bears to post-war Royal Warrant examples, our Chad Valley collection celebrates one of Britain’s most important toy manufacturers. Each bear is selected for its authenticity, character and collectability, offering collectors the opportunity to acquire genuine pieces of British teddy bear history.

Visit Hornseys to discover our curated selection of Chad Valley bears, fine art, rare books and collectable objects from our Yorkshire Dales gallery, established in 1976.

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