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1940s steiff lion Macy's store front.

Profile picture for user hayjude777
By hayjude777, 4 April, 2025
Description

Description

Macys 1940s Steiff Christmas store front Lion, story goes that there were only 4 of these lions made for Macy in 1940s or 50s theres a pull string that makes the jaw move and the Lion Roar, the roar is a little weak now but still works. It's almost life size and in pretty good shape. It belongs to a friend of mine that is looking to sale it, but has had a hard time finding any info on it.any help and possibly an appraisal and offers would be great. Thank you very much

 

Category
Antique Toys
Distinguishing marks
Steiff tag with yellow ribbon under tag,
Condition
Fair
Size and dimensions of this item
I don't have it with me but it's about life size maybe a bit smaller
Date Period
1940 1950
Weight
I think about 30lbs to 35lbs
For Sale?
Yes
Photos
Profile picture for user hayjude777

hayjude777

1 month 4 weeks ago

steiff lion

I posted this 14 years ago, and nothing no message nothing, 

I'm hoping to have better luck this time.

No votes yet
Profile picture for user hayjude777

hayjude777

1 month 4 weeks ago

steiff lion

Any info would be helpful.

No votes yet
Profile picture for user Naida

Naida

1 month 4 weeks ago

1940s–1950s Steiff Lion – Macy’s Christmas Store Display

Item Description:

This item is a near life-size plush lion produced by Steiff, the world-renowned German toy manufacturer, likely in the 1940s or early 1950s. According to the owner’s notes, this lion was part of a limited set of 4 display lions made specifically for Macy’s department store holiday window displays.

  • Brand/Markings: Steiff (with metal Steiff button and yellow tag in ear, as confirmed by the photo)
  • Features: Pull-string mechanism that opens the jaw and emits a roar (partially functional)
  • Material: Mohair and synthetic plush with internal mechanical parts
  • Size: Life-size or just under
  • Estimated Weight: ~30–35 lbs
  • Condition: Fair – some visible wear but retains most original features including Steiff identification

Historical Context:

During the mid-20th century, Steiff partnered with large retailers like Macy’s to create custom, oversized plush animals for Christmas window displays. These unique creations were never mass-produced and are considered rare showpieces today. Custom-made Steiff display animals (especially lions) from this era were handcrafted and feature internal mechanical mechanisms—a specialty of Steiff in the pre- and post-WWII years.

Rarity & Collectibility:

  • Limited Production: Only 4 of these lions reportedly made for Macy’s
  • Mechanism: Jaw movement and sound adds mechanical toy appeal
  • Brand Prestige: Steiff is a premier collectible brand with a global following
  • Provenance Potential: Macy’s display items from this era are historically significant, especially with visual documentation and identifiable Steiff markings

Current Market Value Estimate (As-Is):

Given its condition and rarity:

  • Low Estimate: $2,500
  • Mid Estimate: $4,000–$6,000
  • High Estimate (with strong provenance and restoration): $7,500–$10,000+

Recommendations:

  • Professional Appraisal: Strongly recommended for insurance and sale purposes. You may consider contacting:
    • Steiff USA or Margarete Steiff GmbH (Germany)
    • Accredited antique toy or department store memorabilia appraisers
  • Auction Houses: Consider reaching out to auction platforms like Morphy Auctions, Bertoia, or Heritage Auctions, all of which handle high-end Steiff items and department store collectibles.
  • Preservation Tip: Avoid further mechanical testing and store in a climate-controlled space.
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