Hermès Date Stamp Guide
Quick Guide:
- Pre-1997: Stamps in circles or squares located on the sangle.
- 1997-2014: Stamps enclosed in squares located on the sangle.
- 2015-Present: Stamps without shapes located inside the bag.
History of Hermès Date Code Stamps
- Hermès Began using date codes in 1945
- Also known as blind stamps, these are discreet markings to signify authentic Hermès products
- Indicate the year of production and the artisan responsible for creating the piece
- Stamp style and positioning has evolved over the years
Placement of the Stamps: Then vs. Now
Originally, date code stamps were placed on the exterior of Hermès bags, often the backside of the bag straps or ”sangles”. However, in 2015, Hermès began moving the stamps to the interior of their bags, usually on the left panel or back corner.
How to Interpret Hermès Stamps
Navigating Hermès stamps can be tricky, as they often combine the year code with artisan marks. We’ve created a simple guide to help you decode these stamps and better understand what makes your piece special.
This example shows the old-style date stamp, which was located on the backside of the exterior strap (sangle). (1945-2015)
- “17O 314.O” is the craftsman’s ID stamp and workshop code
- “B in a square (B)” is the date stamp, indicating the year of production
- The letter “B” inside a square corresponds to 1998
This example shows the current format of Hermes’ date stamp, which is now located inside the bag. (2015-Present)
- “D” is the date stamp, the letter D corresponds to the year 2019
- ”PY719” is likely the ID stamp or workshop code
- “WD” likely refers to the craftsperson of that bag’s initials
Fun Fact
In 2014, Hermès was “testing” a new stamping system. Some bags from that year feature an 🅁, while others have a R without a square. This transitional phase marked the shift to the simplified date stamp system that Hermès officially adopted in 2015.
Looking to add a bag with the latest G stamp to your collection? Or perhaps a vintage piece with a more historic date code? Contact us today to explore our curated selection of Hermès bags or inquire about sales and consignment opportunities.
The legacy of Hermès craftsmanship is one of precision, history, and artistry. Whether you’re searching for a bag with the new G stamp or a vintage piece from decades past, understanding the story behind the stamp makes owning an Hermès bag even more rewarding.