Margarete Steiff established the company archive in 1880 in which at least one example of everything produced has been kept, including examples of every limited edition since the 1980’s. The numbers 1 and 12 of the editions, plus the prototype, were archived.
Why number 12? When limited editions were launched, the original idea was to archive 1 and 2 of an edition. However, it was decided not to take another single digit piece (No. 2) out of circulation, so a compromise was to take number 12, when 1 and 2 appear together.
Every archive piece is identified with an archive swing tag that details the piece, as well as an entry in the archive record books, which date back to Margarete’s days!
Each limited edition has its original gift box, some of which show archive details, and features an additional exclusive certificate to verify its origin as being from the archive.

This charming 60th anniversary Paddington from the Steiff Archive, pays homage to Peggy Fortnum; the first illustrator to draw Paddington Bear for Michael Bond’s children’s books. Crafted from the finest pale cinnamon-brown mohair, he features a chocolate brown hand stitched nose and cheeky smile, and flat honey coloured felt paw pads that allow him to stand unaided. He wears his classic red wide brimmed hat and detailed felt duffle coat with wooden toggles to finish off his look perfectly!

This anniversary Paddington Bear, originally released in 2018, is limited to 3000 pieces, has been made exclusively for the UK, and comes with his number 12 certificate numbered certificate in original Steiff gift box.

Size: 28cm / 11.25 inches
5-way jointed
Age: 14+
Surface washable

Margarete Steiff GmbH is the oldest and most famous teddy bear and soft toy manufacturer in the world. Founded in 1880 by Margarete Steiff, the company motto is “Only the best is good enough for our children”. Credited with inventing the first teddy bear in 1902, the company is best known for its “Button in Ear” trademark.

From The Steiff Archive

From The Steiff Archive: 60th Anniversary Paddington Bear - 28cm - Number 12