Steiff – 4335 – Peggy Penguin – c.1950 – 1960s

A charming vintage Steiff “Peggy” Penguin, measuring approximately 33 cm high, with mohair plush body, contrasting felt beak, and the appealing upright stance associated with Steiff’s mid-century penguin designs.

Peggy is one of Steiff’s best-loved bird designs and was produced in a range of sizes during the post-war period. This larger 33 cm example has strong decorative presence and displays the expressive simplicity for which Steiff animal designs are highly regarded. The modelling is characterful, with rounded body, short flippers, forward-facing face with a swivel neck and a pleasingly naïve, collectable expression.

This example does not retain its Steiff button or ear tag. Steiff introduced its famous “Button in Ear” trademark in 1904 and period Peggy Penguins are normally expected to have left the factory with a button and identification. The absence of the button should therefore be treated as a later loss. The attribution is based on the form, scale, materials and construction, all of which are consistent with vintage Steiff Peggy Penguin production.

A fine and increasingly collectable mid-century Steiff animal, especially appealing in this larger display size.

Condition

Good vintage condition overall, with age-related wear consistent with handling and display. The Steiff button and any original ear tag or chest tag are absent. There is some rubbing, thinning and flattening to the mohair and the tummy seam appears to have been restitched. There are light surface marks, minor wear to the felt beak and feet, and general mellowing from age. Please study the photographs carefully, as they form part of the description.

Maker: Steiff, Germany
Date: c.1956–1964
Height: 33 cm
Article No.: 4335
Material: Mohair plush, felt beak, leatherette-style feet
Construction: Firm stuffed body with stitched flippers and applied beak and feet; Steiff button absent, presumably lost.

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 teddy bear offered for sale is examined individually and catalogued with the same attention to detail that we apply throughout our business.

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Our descriptions are based on careful first-hand examination and supported by research into 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.

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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.

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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.

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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 example or a charming post-war companion, it must meet our standards before being offered for sale.

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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.

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From early mohair bears to post-war examples, our Bear collection celebrates important toy manufacturers. Each bear is selected for its authenticity, character and collectability, offering collectors the opportunity to acquire genuine pieces of teddy bear history.

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