When Princess Diana died in a tragic car crash in 1997, countless tributes were created to honor her memory. Among them, none became more iconic than the Princess Diana Beanie Baby.
Released by Ty Inc. in December 1997, the purple bear with a white rose symbolized remembrance, with sales benefiting the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Fund. Initially sold for just $5–$7, the plush quickly became one of the most coveted collectibles of its time.
Lori Verderame, an antiques appraiser who reviews thousands of Beanie Babies each year, explained, “In 1997, it was the toy to get.” She added that it remains especially meaningful for collectors now in their late 20s to early 40s.
What Determines Its Value?
The worth of a Princess Diana Beanie Baby depends heavily on details. “They’re all different,” Verderame noted. Subtle variations—such as whether the bear was filled with PVC or polyethylene pellets, the stitching of the face, or even the country where it was made—can significantly affect price.
The toy was initially rare, with retailers receiving just 12 bears per shipment, but production soon increased dramatically. Verderame estimates that “millions” were ultimately made, making them far less scarce than once believed.
