7 Warning Signs of Scammed Steiff Teddy Bears on Ruby Lane

7 Warning Signs of Scammed Steiff Teddy Bears on Ruby Lane

Ruby Lane is a trusted marketplace for unique collectibles, including coveted Steiff Mohair Teddy Bears. However, even on reputable platforms, scams can occur. Being aware of red flags is crucial to protect your investment and ensure you're acquiring a genuine Steiff bear.

1. Fake Certificate of Authenticity

A genuine Steiff bear is often accompanied by a certificate of authenticity. Scammers may create convincing-looking fake certificates to deceive buyers. Always verify the authenticity of the certificate itself, and if possible, cross-reference details with known authentic examples or consult an expert.

2. Restored-as-Original Deception

Some sellers may attempt to pass off heavily restored teddy bears as original, 'as-found' items. While restoration can be a legitimate part of preserving a collectible, it must be clearly disclosed. Be wary of bears that appear too perfect or have had significant repairs that alter their original state without full transparency.

3. Wire Transfer 'Discount' Bait

Be extremely cautious of sellers who offer a significant discount for payment via wire transfer or other non-traceable methods outside of Ruby Lane's secure payment system (like PayPal). This is a common tactic to avoid payment protection and make off with your money.

4. Stolen Collector Photos

Scammers often use images of genuine Steiff bears that belong to other collectors or reputable dealers. If the seller's photos seem too professional or are from various sources, it could be a sign they don't actually possess the item they are advertising.

5. Off-Platform Private Sale

When a seller encourages you to complete the transaction outside of Ruby Lane's platform, it's a major red flag. This allows them to bypass Ruby Lane's buyer protection policies and is a common tactic in fraudulent schemes.

6. Exaggerated Grading Claims

Sellers might overstate the condition or rarity of a Steiff bear. For valuable collectibles, 'grading' is crucial. Be skeptical of descriptions that use vague or overly enthusiastic language without providing specific details about the bear's condition, such as mohair quality, joint tightness, and any flaws.

7. Hidden Damage Omission

While not all damage is intentional deception, some sellers may deliberately omit mentioning significant flaws like tears, missing parts, or internal damage. Always ask for detailed condition reports and additional photos if anything seems unclear. For higher-value Steiff bears, consider using Safe Trade Services' Premium Plan for an added layer of verification.

For valuable Steiff Mohair Teddy Bears, especially those valued at over $500, consider utilizing Safe Trade Services' Premium Plan. This service provides an additional verification step for high-value transactions, adding an extra layer of security for both buyer and seller.