Australian firm Jakas toys are very popular as collectibles in the Australian market.
They started production in 1954, and these early stuffed animals are quite rare. All joints were movable, with glass and mohair eyes. Kapok was used as filler.
In the 1960s, faux fur and plastic gaskets and eyes were used. Therefore, the prices of toys were reduced, since these materials were cheaper than traditional ones.
The distinctive Jakas plush, with outstretched arms and typical embroidered face, was introduced in the 1960s. Disjointed, they bent at the hips to sit. A wide range of toys were also made, all with the typical face and including dogs, bunnies and poodles. A range of wheeled animals such as bears and horses were made in both pre-walker and walker sizes. Plush toys were made in many sizes, often light brown in color, the most famous being Big Ted. Pajama cases were also popular!
Like Joy Toys, Jakas was unable to compete with the influx of cheaper Asian toys beginning in the 1970s, although it did reduce quality and costs, in an attempt to stay in business. In the 1990s, Jakas was forced to close its doors.
Tags:
Early Jakas bears are generally not tagged. The ones from the 60s say ‘Jakas Toys’. Wash in lukewarm Lux’ water. Later ones just say ‘Jakas Toys’
values:
The first mohair stuffed animals can cost up to $1,000. However, synthetics from the 1970s can be purchased for as little as $20.