Hermès Date Codes: The Blind Stamp Explained
The blind stamp on a Hermès bag is key for checking authenticity and accurately dating your Birkin, Kelly, Evelyne, or Constance. These codes — a single letter sometimes enclosed in a shape — indicate the production year.
Where to Find Date Codes
| Model | Location |
|---|---|
| Birkin and Kelly (before 2016) | On the strap, under the buckle |
| Birkin and Kelly (from 2016) | Inside the bag on the left side |
| Mini Kelly | Inside, near the inner pocket |
| Mini Lindy | Inside the side pocket |
| Evelyne | On the strap, under the flap |
| Constance | Inside, on the inner partition, upper corner |
Decoding the Stamp
1945–1970: Single letter, no frame.
A = 1945, B = 1946 … Z = 1970
1971–1996: Letter inside a circle.
A⊙ = 1971 … Z⊙ = 1996
1997–2014: Letter inside a square.
A□ = 1997 … R□ = 2014
2015–Present: Single letter again, no frame, but no longer in alphabetical order. After 2015, Hermès abandoned the predictable sequence.
Using the Code to Check Authenticity
Cross-reference with catalogs: Model, leather, color, and size should be consistent with the stated year.
Verify the frame format: If a seller states 2010 but the stamp has no frame (post-2015 format), it is definitively fake.
Check stamp position: Modern bags must have the code inside on the left.
Inspect stamp quality: Always neat, deep, and clearly outlined. Curved letters, blurry edges, or shallow impressions are red flags.
Never rely on the code alone: Stitching, leather grain, hardware, and embossing are equally important.
Checklist
- Stamp is in the correct location for the model
- Frame format matches the stated year
- Letter is clear, deep, and even
- Code is consistent with the model's history
- Leather type and color appropriate for the stated year
- All physical markers pass inspection