Ty Beanie Baby plush toy 'Kicks' the Soccer Bear

Kicks the Soccer Bear was released by Ty Inc. in 1998 to commemorate the FIFA World Cup held in France that year. This lime-green bear features an embroidered soccer ball on its chest and was part of the Beanie Babies sports-themed collection. The bear was retired in 1999, making it a sought-after collectible among Beanie Baby enthusiasts. Beanie Babies experienced a massive collecting craze in the 1990s, with certain retired or error-tagged specimens commanding premium prices. Kicks appeals to both nostalgic collectors who remember the Beanie Baby phenomenon and sports memorabilia enthusiasts who appreciate its connection to the 1998 World Cup. Examples with tag errors or mint condition tags are particularly valued by dedicated Beanie Baby collectors who seek rare variations to complete their collections.