Rare item peddler admits to bizarre preference: "Accept my confession for what it's worth"...
The TV show "Bares für Rares" recently uncovered a fascinating find — a 100-year-old Steiff Dutch rabbit. This mohair-stuffed animal, approximately born between 1924 and 1927, is a testament to the craftsmanship of the Steiff family and a treasure for collectors.
The rabbit's unique charm lies in its eccentric wheels, an innovation of the time that allowed it to hop when pulled. This whimsical feature, along with its glass eyes and the iconic Steiff button in its ear with an "FF" underscore mark, makes it a standout among Steiff toys.
Annika Raßbach, an expert on the show, covered the rabbit's ears to avoid the culinary horrors mentioned by Horst Lichter, the show's host. Initially, Lichter expressed a desire to cook the furry guest, comparing it to his mother-in-law's cooking skills. However, his mocking tone softened after seeing the rabbit's unique appearance.
The rabbit's value is significant, with the desired price set at 400 euros according to the expert. Its rarity is due to its age, the presence of eccentric wheels, and the scarcity of early Steiff mohair toys in good condition.
Julian Schmitz-Avila, a passionate collector with a collection that includes a rabbit named Frederik and a cat named Mimi, expressed strong interest in the rabbit. Despite not getting the bid for the "Dutch rabbit" in the dealer team, the vendor couple brought a light-hearted atmosphere to the studio.
The dealer, who confessed his love for stuffed animals, still keeps all his collection at home. The "Dutch rabbit" was owned by an elderly lady for years and is now seeking a new home. The expert's final verdict for the rabbit was that it could retire to "cuddle heaven."
The rabbit's mohair fur, made from angora goat hair, is now very rare, adding to its allure. Despite some slight wear from aging, the rabbit retains its unique charm, making it a valuable addition to any Steiff collection.
[1] "Steiff Dutch Rabbit Value and Guide Price." Collect Steiff, 2021, www.collectsteiff.com/steiff-dutch-rabbit-value-and-guide-price/.
[2] "Steiff Dutch Rabbit." WorthPoint, 2021, www.worthpoint.com/worthopedia/steiff-dutch-rabbit-372524407.
[3] "Steiff Dutch Rabbit." Steiffgal, 2021, www.steiffgal.com/steiff-dutch-rabbit-1920s/.
- The 100-year-old Steiff Dutch rabbit, with its mohair fur, glass eyes, eccentric wheels, and Steiff button, is a highly sought-after item in the fashion-and-beauty and home-and-garden categories, drawing the interest of collectors like Julian Schmitz-Avila.
- The Steiff Dutch Rabbit, with its value estimated at 400 euros, is a testament to the unique lifestyle of collectors, who appreciate its rarity and the story behind this iconic Steiff toy.
