Hermès Authentication: Decoding Stamps and Marks

The Story of the Hermès Stamp

Few maisons embody craftsmanship like Hermès. From the iconic Birkin to the structured Kelly, each Hermès bag carries subtle markings that reveal its history.  Hermès stamps are more than technical details. They are quiet signatures of artisanship.   

What Is a Hermès Stamp?

Inside every authentic Hermès bag, you will find:

— The Hermès logo stamp 
— A blind stamp indicating the year of production
— Sometimes an artisan or workshop code

These small embossed marks are typically located inside the bag or near the strap base. 

The Hermès Year Stamp System

Hermès began using date stamps in 1945. Over time, the system evolved: 
1945–1970: Letters without shapes 
1971–1996: Letters inside circles 
1997–2014: Letters inside squares 
2015–Present: Return to letters without shapes 

Each letter corresponds to a production year.
For example:  A = 2017  B = 2018  C = 2019  (And continues alphabetically, excluding certain letters.) Understanding these stamps helps determine a bag’s age and resale value — especially for investment pieces like Birkin and Kelly models.

Why Hermès Stamps Matter in Resale

Hermès value is rooted in rarity and condition. The year stamp helps: 

— Confirm authenticity 
— Determine age 
— Support investment pricing 
— Identify collectible editions 

But like all authentication elements, stamps must be evaluated alongside leather quality, stitching precision and hardware engraving.  True expertise looks beyond one detail.   

Investing in Timeless Craft

Hermès bags are not seasonal purchases, they are heirloom pieces.  At Labellov, each Hermès bag is authenticated with meticulous care. Because when craftsmanship meets discernment, value endures. We invite you to discover our curated Hermès collection. Your own Hermès bag to sell? Contact our experts for an appointment.