Collecting teddy bears is a beloved hobby for many, providing a sense of nostalgia, joy, and the thrill of the hunt for rare and unique pieces. For serious collectors, knowing where to buy teddy bears is crucial to building a prized collection. Whether you are new to teddy bear collecting or an experienced enthusiast, this guide will help you find the best places to buy teddy bears for collectors.
Types of Collectible Teddy Bears
Before diving into where to buy teddy bears for collectors, it’s important to understand the different types available:
- Vintage Teddy Bears: These are often sought after due to their historical value and unique charm.
- Limited Edition Teddy Bears: These bears are produced in limited numbers and are highly coveted.
- Artist Teddy Bears: Handmade by individual artists, these bears are unique and often one-of-a-kind.
- Custom Teddy Bears: Made to order, these bears can be personalized to your specifications.
Top Places to Buy Collectible Teddy Bears
Finding the perfect teddy bear requires knowing where to look. Here are some top places to buy collectible teddy bears:
Online Marketplaces
- eBay: A vast marketplace where you can find both vintage and modern collectible teddy bears.
- Etsy: Known for handmade and unique items, Etsy is a great place to find artists and custom teddy bears.
- Bear Pile: A specialty site for collectible teddy bears from around the world.
- Tedsby: An online marketplace dedicated to artist-made teddy bears and other collectible plush.
- Ruby Lane: Offers a variety of vintage and collectible teddy bears.
- Amazon: While known for mass-market products, Amazon also has a selection of collectible teddy bears.
Auction Houses
- Sotheby’s: Occasionally features high-end and rare teddy bears in their auctions.
- Christie’s: Another prestigious auction house where you can find valuable collectible teddy bears.
- Bonhams: Specializes in fine art and antiques, including collectible teddy bears.
- Heritage Auctions: Offers a range of collectible toys, including teddy bears.
- Catawiki: An online auction site featuring collectible teddy bears and other unique items.
- Paddle8: Known for curated auctions that can include rare and collectible teddy bears.
- CandT Auctions: Specializes in dolls, dolls’ houses, and teddy bears, offering a range of collectible items.
- Vectis Auctions: Renowned for their teddy bear auctions, featuring a variety of collectible bears.
- Special Auction Services: Offers auctions dedicated to teddy bears and dolls.
- The Saleroom: An online platform hosting various teddy bear auctions from multiple auction houses.
- Toovey’s: Specializes in teddy bears and other soft toys, with regular auctions.
- Hansons Auctioneers: Features auctions for dolls, dolls’ houses, and teddy bears.
- Abbingdon: Known for antique and vintage teddy bears.
- Antiques Trade Gazette: Lists teddy bears among their collectible items.
These auction houses and platforms offer a variety of collectible teddy bears, from vintage and rare pieces to more recent collectibles.
Specialty Stores and Boutiques
United Kingdom:
- Teddy Bears of Witney: Specializes in collectible teddy bears, including both vintage and modern pieces.
- The Toy Shoppe: Offers a variety of collectible teddy bears and dolls, including rare and antique items.
- Mary Shortle: A well-known boutique offering collectible teddy bears from various artists and manufacturers.
- Bear Garden: Specializes in collectible teddy bears, including rare and unique pieces from renowned artists.
- Teddy Bears’ Picnic: Offers a wide range of collectible teddy bears.
Germany:
- Steiff Museum: Museum and store offering a wide selection of collectible teddy bears.
- Bärenwelt: A store in Berlin known for its assortment of collectible teddy bears.
France:
- Le Monde des Oursons: Store in Paris specializing in collectible teddy bears and plush toys.
- Les Oursons de Sophie: Boutique in Lyon offering collectible teddy bears and accessories.
Canada:
- The Teddy Bear Shop: Located in Toronto, Canada, offers a wide selection of collectible teddy bears and accessories.
- The Bear’s Lair: Store in Vancouver specializing in collectible teddy bears and toys.
United States:
- The Teddy Bear Shoppe: Offers a wide range of collectible teddy bears, including unique and rare pieces.
- The Bear Garden: Multiple locations in the U.S. specializing in collectible teddy bears and accessories.
- Bears & Buddies: Store offering collectible teddy bears from renowned brands and artists.
- Teddy Bears of San Francisco: Specializes in collectible teddy bears and toys in San Francisco, California.
Australia:
- The Teddy Bears’ Picnic: The store offers a wide range of collectible teddy bears.
- Bear Necessities: Store in Australia specializing in collectible teddy bears and plush toys.
- The Plush Bear: Known for its selection of collectible teddy bears from well-known manufacturers.
Japan:
- Teddy Bear Museum: Located in Tokyo, specializes in collectible teddy bears and plush toys.
- Tokyo Teddy Bear: Store in Tokyo with a large selection of collectible teddy bears.
South Korea:
- Korean Teddy Bear Museum: Located in Seoul, offering collectible teddy bears and toys.
- Seoul Bears: Store in Seoul specializing in collectible teddy bears.
Italy:
- Bari Bears: Store in Bari, Italy, offering collectible teddy bears and plush toys.
- Teddy Bear Land: Store in Milan with a range of collectible teddy bears.
Local and International Stores: Many boutique stores specialize in collectible teddy bears and can offer expert advice and unique finds.
Tips for Buying Collectible Teddy Bears
1. Research the Market:
Before making a purchase, familiarize yourself with the collectible teddy bear market. Understand various manufacturers, artists, and price ranges to gauge which bears are popular and what constitutes reasonable pricing.
2. Check Authenticity:
Ensure that the teddy bears you are considering are authentic collectibles. Verify certificates of authenticity and manufacturer markings, such as those from Steiff, and examine details to avoid counterfeits.
3. Assess Condition:
Vintage bears may show natural wear, adding character, but significant damage can affect value. Examine the condition of the bear and the quality of any repairs. Well-executed restoration can increase value, but ensure it doesn’t hide serious defects.
4. Repair and Restoration:
Some bears may have been restored. Check that any restoration work has been done professionally and does not conceal significant damage. Properly restored bears can hold increased value if done correctly.
5. Documentation and History:
A bear’s documentation or interesting history can enhance its value. Having a detailed history or certificates can aid in valuation.
6. Verify Seller Reputation:
Buy from reputable sellers or authoritative stores. Research the seller’s reputation and read reviews to avoid fraud and ensure the quality of the purchase.
7. Know Your Budget:
Set a budget before buying and stick to it. Collectible teddy bears can range from affordable to very expensive, so it’s important to know how much you are willing to spend.
8. Consider Auction Purchases:
Auctions can offer unique and rare bears that may not be available in stores. Be prepared for competitive bidding and potentially higher prices.
9. Seek Advice from Other Collectors:
Join teddy bear collector communities and discuss your purchases with other collectors. They can offer valuable advice and recommendations for choosing and buying collectible bears.
10. Don’t Rush the Purchase:
Take your time and carefully evaluate each bear. Sometimes it’s better to wait and find the perfect bear that meets your needs and budget.
11. Consult Experts:
If you’re unsure about a bear’s condition, consult experts in collectible toys. They can provide an accurate assessment and advise whether the bear is worth your attention and budget.
Conclusion
Building a collection of teddy bears is a rewarding and fulfilling hobby. Knowing where to buy teddy bears for collectors, whether through online marketplaces, auction houses, or specialty stores, is key to finding unique and valuable pieces.
Remember to verify authenticity, assess condition, and consider provenance when making a purchase. By following these tips, you can grow your collection with confidence and enjoy the wonderful world of teddy bear collecting.
Thank you to Gencraft for providing the tool used to create all the images featured in this post.
Additional Resources
- Ultimate Guide to Vintage Teddy Bear Identification Tips and Tricks: Part 1
Discover the essentials of identifying vintage teddy bears with our comprehensive guide. Learn key tips and tricks to help you spot rare and valuable finds. - Ultimate Guide to Vintage Teddy Bear Identification Tips and Tricks: Part 2
Deepen your knowledge with advanced techniques for identifying collectible teddy bears. This guide covers more intricate details and features to look for. - Ultimate Guide to Vintage Teddy Bear Identification Tips and Tricks: Part 3
Explore expert insights into evaluating the condition and authenticity of vintage teddy bears. Perfect for seasoned collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Join Us for Exclusive Content and Updates!
Are you seeking more inspiration, free patterns, tutorials, and tips for crafting adorable teddy bears? Join our Facebook page for exclusive updates, and don’t forget to subscribe through the Spotlight form towards the beginning of the article—this is your chance to access exclusive content and win teddy bear crafting supplies!
Let’s create together and share the joy of teddy bear art!
Wow what a comprehensive list of dealers and great advice when buying a Teddy Bear. I don’t realise it was so involved and such an international hobby. I’m curious as to what sort of money they go for. Are there artists that specialise in make teddy bears. I made some for my daughter and nieces from my dad’s shirts when he passed away. We will never sell them.
Thank you so much for your lovely comment! I’m glad you found the list helpful and the advice useful. Teddy bear collecting and crafting is indeed a fascinating and international hobby with a lot of heart and creativity behind it.
Regarding your question about prices, teddy bear prices can vary widely. You can find adorable handmade bears for as little as $20 to $50, while collectible or artist-made bears can range from $100 to several thousand dollars, depending on the artist’s reputation, the materials used, and the bear’s uniqueness.
Yes, there are many artists who specialize in making teddy bears, and they often have their own distinctive styles and techniques. It’s truly a form of art, with each bear being a unique creation.
Your story about making bears from your dad’s shirts is so touching and special. Those bears must hold a lot of sentimental value for your family. It’s wonderful to see how teddy bears can carry such personal and meaningful memories. If you have any more questions or need advice, feel free to ask!
This article is a great find for both new and experienced teddy bear collectors! It does an amazing job of breaking down the different types of collectible bears: vintage, limited edition, artist-made, and custom. This info is super helpful for anyone wanting to start or grow their collection. I love that you’ve mentioned specific places to buy teddy bears, from online spots like eBay and Etsy to specialty stores worldwide. It’s awesome that you’ve covered so many options, making it easy for collectors to find exactly what they want, whether it’s a rare Steiff bear from Germany or a unique creation from an artist on Bearpile.
Thank you so much for your kind words! I’m thrilled to hear that you found the article helpful. It’s always great to know that the information is useful for both new and experienced collectors. I wanted to ensure that collectors have a wide range of options, whether they’re looking for vintage treasures or unique artist-made pieces. Happy collecting, and I hope you find the perfect additions to your teddy bear collection! 🧸😊