Hugo Koch Germany, The Original GI Teddy Bear W/ Army Green Wool & Growler - $10 - (Ionia, MI)
The Original "GI" Teddy! Made By Hugo Koch In Germany. This Bear Growls or Cries When Put On Its Back. Made From US Army Blanket Fabric Articulating Arms & Legs. Stands 14" High. (This is an Estate find) bear has no fowl odors or mildew. One of his eyes has a white line on the button. He is all jointed, unknown date of manufacturing. Hugo Koch owned and operated Hugo Koch Toys in former Czechoslovakia from 1902 until 1945, when the Koch family and business were banished from Wildstein, Czechoslovakia. Koch, his family, and 35 employees were forced to leave the country and had to escape by foot to Germany. At this point, the family tradition would have come to an end had it not been for U.S. Army occupation forces. With the help of a Major in the U.S. Army, it was possible to transport some equipment and tools required for manufacturing, back to Germany. In a few years the firm of Hugo Koch became a very successful business. In 1946, in appreciation for his American soldier friends, Hugo Koch manufactured teddy bears and rocking horses made from U.S. Army blankets. An original is in the Smithsonian's Museum of American History. Kindly View the Photographs as they Provide for Closer Detailing, and ask any questions you may have. We Ship With Great Care and usually same day. We insure all our packages as well as provide tracking numbers. Payments can be made through PayPal and are expected at the close of the auction. Thank you for looking have a Great Day.
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From ebay.com - 1 month ago