Thought you had Ty all figured out eh? The creation of alternate Billionaire #1 bears for his other main territories was actually a practice Ty already had in place beginning with his Ty Employee Teddies. A quick recap – Ty gave out his US Employee Teddies on September 13th, 1997 during their Odyssey cruise. Only 300 examples were made – 150 with green ribbons, and 150 with red ribbons. No swing tags attached. Special magenta stitching used on these bears, and they have 2nd generation red and white tush tags (dated 1993 or 1995).
Now! The Canadian Employee Teddies were made using the New Face TEAL teddy. Same magenta stitching, and 2nd generation red and white tush tag (dated 1993). One example with a red ribbon, and one example with the navy ribbon.
Rarity Tier: UNIQUE Rare
We have strong intel suggesting it is likely only one set of these ended up being made/reaching Ty Canada. This set belonged to Bill Harlow – VP/Ty Canada owner. No other sets have surfaced, and there are no other leads on any pieces. It makes these guys utterly unique and rare. Astounding pieces!
Rarest Beans 