The Hermès Stamp: Unlocking the Secrets of Bag Authenticity and Resale Value

When it comes to luxury investments, few items hold their value and prestige quite like an Hermès bag. Whether you’re a collector or someone looking to buy your first Hermès, understanding the Hermès Stamp is key to making a savvy investment. This tiny, often overlooked detail not only helps verify the authenticity of the bag but also plays a critical role in determining its resale value.

 

What is the Hermès Stamp?

Each Hermès bag is stamped with a small, discrete code, typically located near the seams inside the bag. This stamp is a unique marking system that indicates the year the bag was manufactured and the artisan who crafted it. These codes come in different formats, such as letters inside a square or circle, or just standalone letters, and they help tell the story of the bag’s origin.

 

How to Decode the Stamp

The Hermès stamp system has evolved over time. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• 1971–1996: A single letter in a circle, with “A” corresponding to 1971, “B” to 1972, and so on.

• 1997–2014: A letter inside a square. For example, “A” in a square corresponds to 1997. In 2014, the stamp may or may not have a square frame as it transitioned to a plain letter this year.

• 2015 Onward: Hermès dropped the frames and began using standalone letters. For example, “T” corresponds to 2015. Also, it was no longer in alphabetical order.

 

By identifying the letter or marking inside your bag, you can quickly discover when the bag was produced. This is especially important for collectors who value newer models or limited-edition releases.

 

Why Does the Year Matter?

The newer the bag, the higher the resale value. Here’s why:

1. Condition: Newer bags tend to be in better condition, with less wear and tear. Buyers are willing to pay more for a bag that looks as pristine as possible.

2. Style Updates: Hermès occasionally updates its designs, which can make newer models more desirable. For example, a specific colorway or style might have only been available for a limited time.

3. Rarity: Certain years may have limited production runs or special editions, which increases the bag’s exclusivity and, therefore, its value.

For those interested in luxury resale, understanding the age of a bag is crucial. Bags from the most recent years (with the newest stamps) can command much higher prices, especially if they are in excellent condition.

 

How to Find the Hermès Stamp

Finding the Hermès stamp can be a bit tricky since it’s designed to be discreet. Typically, you’ll find it near the inner seams or inside pockets. Some stamps might be faint, so it’s helpful to use good lighting when searching for them.

 

Resale Value and the Importance of Authentication

When buying or selling Hermès bags, being able to verify the year of manufacture with the stamp not only assures buyers of authenticity but also gives you an edge in pricing the item. At Caviar & Chèvre, we ensure every Hermès bag we handle is thoroughly authenticated, including verifying the stamp year to ensure maximum resale value for both buyers and sellers.

 

Ready to Invest in an Hermès?

Whether you’re looking to purchase a new Hermès bag or sell one from your collection, understanding the Hermès stamp will help you make smarter investment decisions. Contact us at Caviar & Chèvre to explore our collection of authentic Hermès bags or to consign your luxury items with confidence.