Read the stamp
Steiff button identification
In Steiff button identification, a replica can deliberately reproduce an older button style, so the tag and complete model matter when dating it.
Button and tag together
Modern yellow tags with red lettering identify the regular collection. White tags can indicate collector editions, with the lettering and button details identifying the relevant series. Historic and replica buttons use period-specific forms.
What to check next
Photograph both sides of the ear tag and the button, plus any chest label. Record the item and edition numbers separately. A replica can deliberately reproduce an older button style, so the tag and complete model matter when dating it.