Rare Early Chad Valley Fully Jointed Mohair Teddy Bear with Royal Warrant Label, English, c.1938–1952

A charming and increasingly scarce fully jointed Chad Valley teddy bear dating from the Royal Warrant period, retaining the desirable blue-printed cloth label to the left foot reading “By Appointment Toymakers to H.M. The Queen” beneath the Royal Arms. This particular label was introduced following Chad Valley’s receipt of the Royal Warrant in 1938 and remained in use until the accession of Queen Elizabeth II in 1952, providing a reliable dating range for the bear.

Standing approximately 28 cm (11 inches) in height, the bear is constructed in traditional golden mohair with a fully jointed body, black glass eyes, and a hand-stitched black nose and mouth. The classic Chad Valley head shape, with its gently tapered muzzle and characterful expression, remains particularly appealing despite the obvious signs of age and use acquired over many decades.

The surviving Royal Warrant foot label is a notable feature, as many examples have lost their labels through wear. Chad Valley labels bearing the wording “Toymakers to H.M. The Queen” are recognised by collectors as belonging to the 1938–1952 period and represent one of the most sought-after identification marks used by the company.

Condition is honest and well-loved throughout. The mohair shows significant wear and thinning, particularly to the head, muzzle, limbs and extremities. All four paw pads exhibit historic darning and repair. The bear retains a pleasing untouched appearance and displays attractively despite these condition issues. The knitted jumper and trousers are not believed to be original Chad Valley clothing and are included as later accessories only.

An appealing survivor from one of Britain’s most important toy manufacturers, offering considerable decorative charm together with strong historical interest.

Maker: Chad Valley Co. Ltd., England
Date: c.1938–1952
Height: 28 cm (11 inches)
Materials: Mohair, kapok-filled body, glass eyes, stitched nose and mouth
Construction: Fully jointed
Condition: Worn throughout with extensive mohair loss; all four paw pads darned and repaired; later clothing; Royal Warrant foot label present.

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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