With the motto “Only the best is good enough for children!” the Germany-based Steiff Company became famous for its toy teddy bears and large variety of plush animals. But their quality also appealed to adult collectors. This turtle, made around 1965, is one piece in a large collection amassed by Mabel and Clinton Schaefer. Many were purchased at the FAO Schwarz flagship store in New York, and all were displayed in their Florida home. This turtle is one of a pair, which was used by the couple as footrests in their living room. After the collection was donated to The Children’s Museum, many of its items appeared annually in the popular Jolly Days exhibit.
