Teddy the Teddy, once owned by Cameron Cobbold, 1st Baron Cobbold, won the 2026 title following a public vote.
It was selected from a shortlist of 23 objects nominated by museums across the county.
Chris Lucas, executive member for resources and performance at Hertfordshire County Council, said: “It was a real pleasure to be part of this year’s Hertfordshire Association of Museums Awards.
“The passion and creativity shown by our museums never fails to inspire me, and today’s event was a wonderful celebration of everything they contribute to our communities.
“Our museums play a vital role in preserving Hertfordshire’s heritage, supporting wellbeing, and bringing people together, and it was fantastic to see so many projects, objects and individuals recognised for their hard work and dedication.”
The runner-up entries included North Hertfordshire Museum’s Dea Nutrix, a Roman-era pipeclay figure of a seated mother nursing a child, found in the grave of a child in Baldock.
Another finalist was the 1967 Ovaltine Calendar from Dacorum Heritage.
Created as a promotional gift for sales representatives and businesses, the calendar represents mid-20th-century marketing design and reflects the style of the 1960s.
Julie Gregson, head of heritage services at Hertfordshire County Council, said: “The Hertfordshire Association of Museums Awards are a wonderful way to showcase the creativity and commitment of our museum teams.
“Through the Museums Development Service we’re proud to support their work and help them continue delivering inspiring experiences across the county.”
The awards ceremony was held on March 4 at the British Schools Museum in Hitchin.
Organised by the Hertfordshire Association of Museums, the event also honoured museums and individuals in other categories.
North Herts Museum won the Creative Health Award.
The Engagement Award was presented to both the Garden City Collection and St Albans Museum + Gallery.
The Innovation Award went to Lowewood Museum, and Royston Museum earned the Environmental Sustainability Award.
Heritage Hero Awards recognised staff and volunteers across the county for their dedication in supporting museums and the communities they serve.