‘Bearing’ the Facts About Stuffed Animals

Question: You’ve answered questions about mechanical toys and those of the metal variety, such as model cars and trucks, but what about stuffed toys, such as animals? How do individuals approach the subject in terms of mounting a serious collection?--O.G.

Answer: Collectors amassing stuffed animals tend either to concentrate on one animal, such as the famous teddy bear, or accumulate items from one company.

In terms of assessing value, the stuffed toy must be in top condition--no holes with stuffing falling out--and it has even greater value if the original ribbons and clothes are still on the animal.

Stuffed toys were popular in Europe in the mid-19th Century before they caught on in America. Following the turn of the century, their popularity quickly spread in this country too.

Authenticated stuffed animals dating back more than half a century have sold for more than $500 each, according to dealer catalogues.

Mailbag

Another unusual collectible category just came to our attention. Norma H. Vestey of Sylmar writes:

“Over the past several years I have been collecting glass top hats. I now have a collection of 20 of these glass hats, all in various sizes and shapes; the smallest is a thimble in the shape of a black top hat.

“There are many colors in my collection, including a clear glass hat with an etched Mickey Mouse; these hats were made by firms such as Avon and others.”

Vestey wonders if anyone can tell her what the hats were originally used for and whether she can network with collectors with similar collections. Her telephone number: (818) 956-6562.

The 20th Century Design Show & Sale, featuring a wide variety of 20th-Century collectibles from the 1930s to the 1960s, is scheduled April 15-16 at the Glendale Civic Auditorium, 1401 Verdugo Road, Glendale. Items on display will range from table radios to toasters to icons of rock ‘n’ roll and the Space Age. Admission: $4. Saturday hours: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sunday hours 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For further information, call (213) 392-6676.